Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole - Easy Baked Chicken Dish

Looking for a delicious and comforting meal that's easy to prepare, even on the busiest of days? Look no further than the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole! This dish is a favorite among busy families and casserole lovers for its simple preparation and mouth-watering flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this casserole combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping to create a meal that feels like a big warm hug.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 35 crackers), crushed
1/2 cup melted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious casserole:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Chicken: In a medium pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chicken breasts and cook until no longer pink in the center, about 15-20 minutes. Remove from water, cool slightly, and shred the chicken using two forks.
Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded chicken to the mixture and stir to combine.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Crush the Ritz Crackers: Place the Ritz crackers in a zip-lock bag and crush them using a rolling pin or your hands. Mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until well coated.
Add the Topping: Spread the buttery cracker crumbs evenly over the chicken mixture.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Garnish: If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips and Variations

Make this casserole your own with these simple variations:

Vegetables: Add 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables or fresh broccoli to the chicken mixture for a more nutritious meal.
Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
Herbs: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill to the sauce for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Serving: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a simple, delicious, and comforting Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole perfect for any night of the week. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Share your variations and tips with us—happy cooking!

Enjoy your meal and happy cooking! 🍽️