Are you looking for a comforting dish that combines simplicity and deliciousness? Look no further than ritz chicken casserole! This creamy, savory dish features tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping that makes it irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains about 350 calories, 20g of fat, 30g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein. Please note that these values are for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cheddar cheese, mixing well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute cooked turkey for chicken, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or opt for gluten-free crackers for a healthier version. Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies too!
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it with fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy goodness.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pre-cooking the chicken can lead to uneven cooking.
- Using low-quality crackers may affect the texture.
- Skipping the seasoning can make the dish bland.
- Baking at too high a temperature can burn the topping.
- Not letting it cool slightly before serving can make it messy.
Helpful Tips
- Use leftover roast chicken to save time.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavors.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings.
- Add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can use homemade white sauce or cream of mushroom soup as alternatives.
Can I use fresh vegetables?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole for even cooking.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Just ensure it’s well-covered to prevent freezer burn.
How can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for extra heat.
Conclusion
Ritz chicken casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that combines savory flavors and textures. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the creamy goodness and delightful crunch of Ritz crackers that make this casserole a standout!
Ritz Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers crushed
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup.
- Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cheddar cheese, mixing well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and enjoy!
Nutrition
