Name: Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Optional: 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Optional: fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole is a classic comfort food dish featuring tender shredded chicken in a rich, creamy sauce topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy, savory, and satisfying.
Quick to assemble with minimal prep work.
Uses simple pantry and fridge staples.
Great for using up leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Family-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole

Ingredients

Cooked shredded chicken
Cream of chicken soup
Sour cream
Ritz crackers
Butter
Salt and pepper
Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, or fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Crush Ritz crackers and place them in a bowl. Melt the butter and mix it with the crackers until coated.
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden-brown topping.
Garnish with parsley before serving if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 and takes about 10 minutes of prep time plus 30 minutes of baking.

Variations

Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese to the chicken mixture for extra richness.
Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or carrots for added vegetables.
Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier taste.
Swap Ritz crackers for buttery panko breadcrumbs.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. This casserole can also be assembled ahead of time, refrigerated, and baked when ready to serve. If freezing, wrap tightly and thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole?

Yes, freeze unbaked for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight before baking.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely, it’s a great time-saver.

Can I make it lighter?

Use low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat soup, and a smaller amount of butter.

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

Buttery panko breadcrumbs or crushed club crackers work well.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, broccoli, peas, carrots, or green beans make great additions.

Does it need cheese?

No, but adding cheese makes it richer and more flavorful.

Can I use homemade cream of chicken soup?

Yes, for a fresher, less processed version.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

Bake uncovered and serve immediately to prevent sogginess.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free cream soup.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, buttery, and easy to prepare. With tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and a crispy cracker topping, it’s a dish that’s sure to please the whole family and make its way into your regular dinner rotation.

Jane