Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a beloved dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. It’s a delightful combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy soup, and a crispy cracker topping that all the family will enjoy. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it’s quick to assemble and uses common pantry ingredients. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also offers a cozy and homely feel that’s sure to please!

How to Make Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

Creating this delicious Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is simple and requires minimal effort. With just a few steps, you can whip up a hearty meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions that will guide you through this delightful recipe.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
1/4 cup butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until well combined.
Spread the Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture in the casserole dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

This Chicken Casserole is best served warm and can be accompanied by a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Scoop generous portions onto each plate and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish. For an added touch, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

How to Store Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

To store any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, where it can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken mixture.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a twist, such as Monterey Jack or gouda.
If you want to make it even creamier, stir in a splash of chicken broth or a bit more sour cream.
To make it healthier, you can use fresh vegetables instead of frozen and opt for low-fat sour cream and cheese.

Variation

You can easily customize this casserole by swapping out the chicken for turkey or even a vegetarian protein like chickpeas for a meatless option. Additionally, changing the soup base to cream of mushroom or a cheese soup can create entirely different flavor profiles. Adding spices such as garlic powder or paprika can enhance the taste.

FAQs

Can I use raw chicken in this recipe?
No, it’s essential to use cooked chicken as the casserole needs to bake for a shorter time, and raw chicken won’t cook through adequately in that timeframe.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when it is bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown. A toothpick or knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s gone straight from the refrigerator to the oven.