Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole: Creamy, Crunchy, and Comforting

ByYummy Recipes

If you love comfort food that’s quick, creamy, and family-approved, then this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is exactly what your weeknight dinner rotation needs. It’s rich, buttery, and has that irresistible golden-cracker topping that everyone fights over. Made with tender shredded chicken, a creamy sauce, and a blanket of crushed Ritz crackers baked to golden perfection, it’s the definition of cozy.

This recipe is not only easy to throw together, but it’s also ideal for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie meat. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, needing something hearty to bring to a potluck, or just want dinner on the table in under an hour, this casserole checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

  • Comfort Food Classic – Creamy chicken filling with a buttery, crunchy topping.
  • Super Easy – Minimal prep and just a handful of pantry staples.
  • Kid-Friendly – No weird ingredients, just familiar, delicious flavors.
  • Great for Leftovers – Use up cooked chicken or turkey in a new way.
  • Freezer-Friendly – Perfect to prep ahead and bake later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie, baked, or leftover)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Topping:

  • 1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn
  • 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven & Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

Optional: Stir in cheese or vegetables here if you want to bulk it up.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until all crumbs are coated.

Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 5: Cool & Serve

Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Tasty Variations

  • Spicy Buffalo Version: Mix in 1/4 cup buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
  • Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole: Stir in steamed broccoli and extra cheddar.
  • Thanksgiving Leftover Style: Use turkey instead of chicken and add green beans or stuffing.
  • Ranch Chicken Casserole: Add 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning to the filling.
  • Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in taco seasoning, black beans, and shredded pepper jack.

How to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

  • With a Side Salad: Balance the richness with a crisp green salad and vinaigrette.
  • Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes: Makes it extra hearty and stretches the servings.
  • With Steamed Veggies: Green beans, broccoli, or carrots pair well.
  • As a Potluck Dish: Serve straight from the baking dish—always a crowd favorite.

Tips for Success

  • Crush Crackers by Hand or Bag: Place Ritz in a zip-top bag and roll with a pin.
  • Use Freshly Cooked or Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds flavor.
  • Make it Creamier: Add an extra spoon of sour cream or a splash of milk.
  • Bake Until Bubbly: You want to see that golden, crisp topping and hot, creamy center.
  • Double the Recipe: It’s freezer-friendly—make one now, freeze one for later.

Storage & Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven until hot, or microwave individual servings.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Sugar: 1g
    (based on 6 servings)

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Difficulty: Easy

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, it’s a great substitute and adds extra protein.

What’s a good cracker substitute?
Club crackers, buttery saltines, or panko mixed with butter work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the cracker topping just before baking.

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, it’s a great post-holiday casserole idea.

How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream soup and certified gluten-free crackers.

Conclusion

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is everything you want in a comforting weeknight meal—creamy, savory, crunchy, and deeply satisfying. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for beginner cooks, busy families, or anyone craving a cozy casserole that hits all the right notes. Make it once, and it’s guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

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