Ritz Chicken Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy this recipe is to prepare with just a few ingredients. It is perfect for busy days when I still want a homemade meal. The creamy base pairs beautifully with the crunchy, buttery Ritz topping, creating a texture contrast that I really enjoy. It is also a great way to use leftover chicken, which makes it even more convenient.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

10.5 ounce cream of chicken soup with herbs

1 cup sour cream

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed

1/2 cup butter, melted

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a casserole dish.

In a large bowl, I mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Italian seasoning until smooth. Then I stir in the cooked chicken until everything is well combined.

I transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Next, I sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers over the top, making sure to cover the entire surface. I drizzle the melted butter over the crackers so they become golden and crisp while baking.

I bake the casserole uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is golden and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Servings and timing

I get about 6 servings from this recipe. The total time is around 40 minutes, including preparation and baking.

Variations

I sometimes add steamed broccoli or peas to make it a more complete meal. When I want extra flavor, I mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella.

I also like experimenting with different seasonings, such as garlic powder or paprika, to give the dish a slightly different taste. For a lighter version, I use reduced-fat sour cream.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors stay rich and comforting even after reheating.

When I reheat it, I prefer using the oven to keep the topping crisp. I warm it at a low temperature until heated through. If I use the microwave, I know the topping will soften but it still tastes good.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

I often use rotisserie chicken because it saves time and adds extra flavor.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

I prepare the filling ahead and store it in the fridge. I add the cracker topping just before baking so it stays crisp.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

I sometimes use other buttery crackers or even breadcrumbs, but Ritz gives the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze this casserole?

I freeze it without the cracker topping. When ready to bake, I thaw it, add the topping, and bake as usual.

How do I make it less rich?

I reduce the butter slightly or use lighter versions of the soup and sour cream.

Conclusion

I find this Ritz chicken casserole to be one of the easiest comfort meals I can make. It is creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor, all while being quick to prepare. It is a reliable recipe I turn to whenever I want something warm and satisfying with minimal effort.

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