ritz cracker chicken casserole recipe

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe: Simple and Crunchy Delight

by

The smell of buttery, golden Ritz crackers brings back happy family dinners. The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that takes you back to simpler times. It’s made with tender chicken, creamy filling, and a crunchy Ritz cracker crust.

Looking for a quick meal or something to share with family? The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is perfect. It’s easy to make and full of flavor. You’ll love the mix of savory, creamy, and crunchy.

Introduction to Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole recipe

The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a simple, yet delicious comfort food classic. It’s a go-to family dinner idea. The dish has a creamy chicken base and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping.

It only needs six key ingredients. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.

What Makes It Special?

The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is special because of its simplicity. It uses just seven main ingredients, with Ritz crackers as the star. The crisp, golden topping adds a satisfying crunch.

The dish is also versatile. You can add different flavors and substitutions to suit your taste.

A Comfort Food Classic

This casserole comes from traditional Southern comfort food. It’s a beloved staple in American homes. The tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping make it a satisfying meal.

It’s perfect for both kids and adults. Whether it’s a main course or a potluck dish, it’s always a hit. It offers a taste of homemade goodness.

IngredientAmount
Chicken (boneless, skinless breasts or rotisserie)2-3 cups, cubed or shredded
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup1 (10.5 oz) can
Cream Cheese8 oz, softened
Powdered Ranch Mix1 packet (1 oz)
Melted Butter1/2 cup
Ritz Crackers1 sleeve (approximately 30 crackers)

The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a simple, yet delicious comfort food dish. It’s a staple in many American households. With its contrasting textures and versatile flavor, it’s a family-friendly dinner idea that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole , you’ll need a few key ingredients. The main ingredient is chicken. You can use fresh, cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken for ease.

For the creamy base, you’ll need condensed cream of chicken soup and full-fat sour cream. Sliced green onions, chicken broth, and crunchy Ritz crackers add to the flavors.

Chicken Options: Fresh or Rotisserie?

You have two chicken options. Use about 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken from a rotisserie chicken or chicken pieces. Or, cook the chicken yourself by poaching, grilling, or roasting to get the same amount.

Essential Pantry Items

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken with herbs soup
  • 1 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 1/2 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) melted salted butter

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

To enhance your cheesy chicken casserole, consider adding some optional ingredients:

  • 1-2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

These seasonings can add a delightful kick to your creamy chicken bake.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Preparing a tasty easy chicken recipe like the chicken and cracker casserole is simple. Let’s go through the steps to make this comforting dish.

Preparing the Chicken

First, heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big bowl, mix shredded or diced cooked chicken with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and seasonings. Make sure the chicken is well coated.

Mixing the Casserole Ingredients

Next, mix cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and spices in another bowl. This sauce will be the creamy base of your chicken and cracker casserole.

Layering It All Together

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the seasoned chicken at the bottom. Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. For the crunchy topping, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.

Follow these easy steps to make a perfect easy chicken recipe. You’ll love the creamy and crunchy chicken and cracker casserole!

Making the Ritz Cracker Topping

The secret to a great Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the topping. Start by crushing the Ritz crackers coarsely. This way, you get both fine crumbs and bigger pieces for texture.

The Secret to Extra Crunch

To get the perfect topping, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted salted butter. The butter makes the cracker bits stick together. This creates a golden, crispy layer on your casserole. Make sure to spread it evenly for crunch in every bite.

Spice It Up: Seasoning Suggestions

  • Add garlic powder or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the topping for extra flavor.
  • A little paprika or cayenne pepper can add a nice heat to the crust.
  • Try your favorite seasonings to make the dish your own.

The beauty of this casserole is its simple yet tasty nature. By perfecting the cracker topping, you’ll take the ritz crackers and crunchy chicken casserole to new heights.

Ritz cracker topping

Cooking Instructions

Getting the perfect Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is all about the cooking steps. Follow these to make your dish tender, flavorful, and golden-brown.

Recommended Baking Time and Temperature

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30 to 40 minutes. This ensures the chicken is cooked, the cheese is melted, and the Ritz cracker topping is crunchy.

Knowing When It’s Done

  1. Watch the casserole as it bakes. The top should be golden brown and the edges should bubble.
  2. Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should be 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.
  3. If the top browns too fast, cover it with foil to prevent over-browning.
  4. To get a crisper topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end. But watch it closely to avoid burning.

By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole that’s perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that goes well with many sides. It’s great for a cozy family dinner or an impressive spread for guests. This casserole offers endless serving possibilities.

Perfect Sides to Pair With

Complement the savory flavors of the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with sides like:

  • Fluffy white rice or buttery egg noodles
  • Homemade Southern cornbread or flaky buttermilk biscuits
  • Roasted broccoli, green beans, or glazed carrots

Creative Plating Ideas

For a more elegant presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This lets each guest have their own portion, adding sophistication. Or, for a casual family-style dinner, serve it straight from the baking dish. This way, everyone can enjoy the comforting flavors together.

However you present it, the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole will be a hit. Its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy topping make it perfect for any occasion.

Ritz cracker chicken casserole

Storing Leftovers

Enjoying the delicious Ritz cracker chicken casserole doesn’t have to end with the first serving. This comforting dish is perfect for make-ahead meals and leftover casserole storage. With a few simple steps, your leftovers will stay fresh and flavorful.

Best Methods to Keep It Fresh

To store leftover Ritz cracker chicken casserole, first let it cool completely. Then, transfer the casserole (without the cracker topping) to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 3-4 days.

For longer-term storage, freeze the casserole. Wrap the cooled dish tightly in heavy-duty foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. The frozen casserole will last up to 2 months. Keep the Ritz cracker topping separate until ready to reheat and serve.

Reheating Tips for Optimal Taste

  1. To reheat the refrigerated casserole, cover it with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
  2. For individual portions, reheat them in the microwave for about 1 minute, checking for doneness.
  3. When reheating, add the reserved Ritz cracker topping before popping the casserole back in the oven or microwave. This will restore the signature crunchy texture.

By following these simple storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of Ritz cracker chicken casserole long after the initial meal. Savor the leftovers as a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or pack them for lunch on the go.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

The classic Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is loved by many. But, why not try something new? Explore these exciting variations to elevate your chicken casserole’s flavor and nutrition.

Adding Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

To make your chicken casserole healthier, add fresh or frozen veggies. Here are some great options:

  • Broccoli florets for a green boost and extra fiber
  • Peas for a sweet, garden-fresh taste
  • Sliced mushrooms for an earthy, umami-rich addition
  • Spinach or kale for a nutrient-dense boost

Just sauté or steam the veggies before adding them. This makes your casserole a healthy casserole option.

Alternative Toppings and Crunch Options

While Ritz cracker topping is great, why not try something different? Here are some alternatives for a twist:

  1. Crushed potato chips for a salty, satisfying crunch
  2. Cornflakes or other cereal for a lighter, crispier topping
  3. Panko breadcrumbs for a delightfully crispy finish
  4. Shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a melty, savory layer

There are endless possibilities for chicken casserole variations that offer unique textures and flavors.

“Experimenting with different toppings and add-ins is half the fun of making a chicken casserole. Get creative and find the variations that your family loves the most!”

Family-Friendly Casserole Ideas

The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a hit with families. It’s easy to make it your own by changing it up for your kids.

Kid-Friendly Modifications

Use fun-shaped pasta to make the casserole more exciting for kids. It’s fun to eat and looks great. You can also add their favorite veggies like broccoli or green beans. This way, they get extra nutrients without noticing.

Making It a Fun Cooking Activity

  • Let your kids crush the Ritz crackers for the topping. It’s fun and teaches them about cooking.
  • Set up a “build-your-own” casserole bar. Let everyone add their favorite toppings. It’s a fun way to make dinner together.
  • Let your kids arrange the ingredients before baking. It makes the dish look and taste better.

By making these changes and involving your family in cooking, the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole becomes a special tradition. It’s a great way to bond over a delicious meal.

Nutritional InformationPer Serving
Calories374 kcal
Carbohydrates18g
Protein22g
Fat24g
Saturated Fat12g
Cholesterol120mg
Sodium143mg
Potassium288mg
Fiber1g
Sugar3g
Vitamin A616IU
Vitamin C1mg
Calcium99mg
Iron1mg

Nutritional Information

The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a tasty comfort food that’s also good for you. A single serving has about 443 calories. It also has 17g of carbs, 29g of protein, and 29g of fat.

This dish uses cream cheese and sour cream, but it’s mainly chicken. Chicken gives it 29g of protein. But, it has 14g of saturated fat, so eat it in moderation.

Nutritional FactsPer Serving
Calories443
Carbohydrates17g
Protein29g
Fat29g
Saturated Fat14g
Cholesterol125mg
Sodium818mg

To make this healthy casserole options even better, try using low-fat dairy. Add more veggies to increase fiber and nutrients. These changes can make this dish a balanced meal that’s good for you.

Conclusion and Tips

The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish. It can be easily customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. This classic comfort food recipe is a crowd-pleaser, delivering a delightful balance of creamy chicken and a crunchy topping.

Final Thoughts on the Perfect Casserole

Remember, the key to a great casserole is balancing flavors and textures. The creamy chicken base should complement the crisp Ritz cracker topping. This creates a textural delight in every bite.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and add-ins. With a little creativity, you can transform the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole into a true culinary masterpiece.

Encouraging Experimentation with Flavors

Casseroles are the perfect canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, switch up the cheese, or even try different cracker toppings. The beauty of this comfort food recipes lies in its versatility.

Allow you to tailor it to your family’s preferences. Embrace the process of cooking and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious, easy chicken recipe that your loved ones will adore.

FAQ

What makes the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole special?

This casserole mixes shredded chicken, creamy soup, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. It’s a perfect mix of textures and tastes.

Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions?

Yes, the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is great for any time. It’s comforting and loved by all, making it perfect for any meal.

Can I use freshly cooked chicken or does it have to be rotisserie?

You can use either fresh or rotisserie chicken. Rotisserie chicken is easy, but fresh chicken works well too.

What are the key ingredients in this casserole?

The main parts are shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, scallions, and chicken broth. It also has a topping of crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter.

Can I add any extra ingredients or customize the recipe?

Yes, you can add your own touches. Try vegetables, different cheeses, or other cracker toppings to make it your own.

How long does the casserole need to bake?

Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes. It’s ready when the top is golden and the edges bubble.

What are some good side dish options to serve with the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?

Good sides include rice, egg noodles, and Southern cornbread. Buttermilk biscuits and vegetable sides like green beans or carrots also pair well.

Can I make this casserole in advance and store leftovers?

Yes, you can make it ahead and store it. It keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days or up to 2 months in the freezer (without the Ritz cracker topping).

How many calories are in a serving of the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?

A serving has about 569 calories. It has 36g of protein, 38g of fat, and 21g of carbs.

Can I make a lighter version of the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?

Yes, you can make it lighter. Use low-fat soups and cheeses, and add more veggies. This boosts fiber and nutrients without adding too many calories.

Source Links

Leave a Comment