Chicken Casserole Ritz Crackers: Easy Recipe & Baking Tips

Chicken Casserole Ritz Crackers: the name alone conjures up images of cozy nights and comforting flavors, doesn’t it? But this isn’t just any casserole; it’s a symphony of creamy chicken, tender vegetables, and that irresistible buttery crunch that only Ritz crackers can provide. Forget complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen. This dish is all about delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it the perfect weeknight meal or potluck contribution.

While the exact origins of Chicken Casserole Ritz Crackers are shrouded in a bit of mystery, its essence lies in the heart of American comfort food. Casseroles, in general, gained popularity in the mid-20th century as a convenient way to feed families using readily available ingredients. The addition of Ritz crackers, with their delicate saltiness and satisfying crispness, elevates this classic to a whole new level of deliciousness.

What makes this particular casserole so beloved? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy, savory chicken filling is wonderfully complemented by the buttery, salty crunch of the Ritz cracker topping. It’s also incredibly versatile – feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to your liking. Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist the nostalgic appeal of a good old-fashioned casserole? So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s create a Chicken Casserole Ritz Crackers masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• Chicken: 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 2 (10.75 oz) cans
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 (10.75 oz) can
• Sour Cream: 1 cup (full fat recommended for richness)
• Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted
• Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve (approximately 30 crackers), crushed
• Celery: 1 cup, diced
• Onion: 1/2 cup, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
• Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried Rosemary: 1/4 teaspoon
• Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup (optional, for thinning sauce if needed)
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (optional, for topping)
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. You have a couple of options here. You can either poach the chicken breasts until they’re cooked through, or you can bake them. I prefer poaching because it keeps the chicken super moist. To poach, place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let the chicken cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re cooked through. Again, make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool slightly. Then, shred it using two forks. You want nice, bite-sized pieces. Set the shredded chicken aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables:

1. Now, let’s work on the flavor base. In a large skillet, melt about 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced celery and onion to the skillet. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re softened and slightly translucent. This step is important because it brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.

Making the Creamy Sauce:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sautéed celery, onion, and garlic mixture to the bowl with the soup mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the bowl. Gently fold it into the sauce, making sure all the chicken is coated.
4. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Adjust the seasonings to your liking. I like a little extra thyme, but that’s just me!
5. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a little chicken broth to thin it out. Start with 1/4 cup and add more as needed until you reach your desired consistency.

Assembling the Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
3. Pour the chicken and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Preparing the Ritz Cracker Topping:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and the melted butter. Mix them together until the crackers are evenly coated with butter. This buttery cracker topping is what makes this casserole so irresistible!
2. Sprinkle the Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish. Make sure to cover the entire surface.
3. If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the Ritz cracker topping. This is optional, but I highly recommend it! It adds a nice cheesy flavor and a golden-brown color to the topping.

Baking the Casserole:

1. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
2. Keep an eye on the topping to make sure it doesn’t burn. If it starts to get too dark, you can cover the casserole with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.
3. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Garnish the casserole with fresh chopped parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
2. Serve the chicken casserole hot. It’s delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or a green salad.
3. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as peas, carrots, or green beans. You can add them to the skillet along with the celery and onion.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese for the topping. Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a blend of cheeses would be delicious.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Healthier Option: Use low-fat cream of chicken soup, low-fat sour cream, and whole wheat Ritz crackers for a healthier version of this casserole.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free crackers.
• Add Mushrooms: If you love mushrooms, add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the celery and onion.
• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use a rotisserie chicken instead of poaching or baking the chicken breasts. Just shred the chicken and add it to the sauce.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can be used instead of dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a comforting hug in a dish, a symphony of creamy chicken, tender vegetables, and that irresistible buttery, salty crunch of Ritz crackers. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about sharing this recipe with you. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy families, potlucks, or even a cozy night in.

What makes this casserole a must-try? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy chicken filling, packed with savory goodness, is beautifully complemented by the crispy, golden-brown Ritz cracker topping. It’s simple enough for beginner cooks, yet satisfying enough to impress even the most discerning palates. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a side of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious creamy sauce.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with variations. Want to add a little kick? Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Craving more vegetables? Add some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some frozen peas and carrots. For a cheesier twist, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the Ritz crackers before baking. You can even swap out the chicken for leftover turkey or ham for a completely different flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

I truly believe this Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, evokes happy memories, and leaves everyone feeling warm and satisfied. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken, making it a budget-friendly and eco-conscious choice.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of this incredible casserole. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do.

And now, for the most important part: I want to hear from you! Once you’ve tried this recipe, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Any tips or tricks you’d like to share? Your feedback is invaluable, and I love hearing about your culinary adventures. Let’s build a community of casserole lovers and inspire each other with our delicious creations! Don’t forget to rate the recipe too! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear all about your Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers success! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do. It’s a true comfort food classic that’s sure to become a family favorite.