A Comforting Classic for Busy Nights

If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious, this Ritz Chicken Casserole is the perfect answer. With its creamy filling, savory seasonings, and buttery, golden cracker topping, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite among families. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy potluck gathering, this dish promises to deliver smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a gem for several reasons:

Quick Prep: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have this casserole in the oven in no time.
Customizable: You can easily adapt this dish to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Family-Friendly: The creamy, savory flavors are sure to appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes just as good—if not better—the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible Ritz Chicken Casserole and explore some tips and tricks to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

10.5 ounces condensed chicken soup (cream of chicken soup works best)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 cup sliced green onions
3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut)
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls
9×13-inch baking dish
Spatula or spoon for mixing
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed chicken soup, Italian seasoning, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
Add the Chicken: Fold in the cooked and shredded chicken along with the sliced green onions, ensuring everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Mix until the crackers are fully coated.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs evenly over the chicken mixture. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy, crunchy goodness!

Tips and Variations

Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan over the chicken mixture before adding the cracker topping for an extra cheesy twist.
Protein Swaps: Try using cooked turkey or diced ham instead of chicken for a fun variation.
Add Veggies: Incorporate cooked broccoli, peas, or carrots into the filling for added nutrition.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free crackers for the Ritz crackers and ensure your soup is gluten-free.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a subtle kick.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this casserole stores beautifully:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Food and Drink Pairings

Side Dishes: Serve this casserole with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus for a complete meal.
Beverages: Pair it with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a light beer for an adult-friendly option. For non-alcoholic choices, lemonade or iced tea complements the dish perfectly.

FAQ

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch, but freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken will provide better flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

You can substitute crushed saltine crackers, bread crumbs, or even crushed cornflakes for the topping.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole (minus the topping), cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the cracker topping and proceed with the recipe.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

This Ritz Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, crunchy, and packed with flavor. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy and satisfying meal, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and kitchen tips. Happy cooking!

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