Introduction
This Buttery Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and a crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker topping, this dish is bound to be a family favorite. Simple to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
4. Prepare the Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated.
5. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Shredding Chicken: For easy shredding, use two forks or a hand mixer to pull apart the cooked chicken.
- Crushing Crackers: Place the Ritz crackers in a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin for even pieces.
- Variations: Add some frozen peas or mixed vegetables to the chicken mixture for added color and nutrition.
Substitutions/Variations
- Meat: Substitute the chicken with turkey or ham for a different twist.
- Soup: Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese: Swap cheddar for Swiss or mozzarella cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of adding the cracker topping, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole without the cracker topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add the cracker topping, and bake as directed.
What sides go well with this casserole?
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the cracker topping crispy.
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Thank you for trying this Buttery Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole recipe! It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Enjoy!