Craving a hearty, comforting dish? Look no further than Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole! This creamy, savory casserole combines tender chicken with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or potlucks, and it can easily be made ahead of time. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
– 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1 cup) of Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole contains about 350 calories, 20g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein. This nutritional breakdown is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk.
3. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
4. Fold in the shredded chicken and half of the cheddar cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
7. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
8. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
10. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a healthier option. Feel free to use any leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Serving and Pairings
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven cooking.
- Using too much liquid can make the casserole soupy.
- Overcooking can lead to a dry dish.
- Not seasoning the chicken beforehand can lead to bland flavors.
- Forgetting to grease the baking dish may cause sticking.
Helpful Tips
- Use leftover chicken for quicker prep.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste preferences.
- Make it ahead of time to save on busy nights.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully cooked and shredded before mixing it into the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz and ensure the cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is also a great option to complement the casserole.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a simple yet delicious dish perfect for any occasion. With its creamy chicken filling and crunchy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the comforting flavors and easy preparation that make this casserole a family favorite!
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 can 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and half of the cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to 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.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
