Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Creamy comfort meets crispy cracker chicken casserole in a dish that promises pure delight.

Layers of tender meat combine with crunchy Ritz crackers for an irresistible meal.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet satisfying solutions, and this recipe delivers perfectly.

Families appreciate meals that come together quickly without sacrificing flavor.

Pantry staples transform into a hearty main course that feels like a warm hug.

Crisp cracker topping adds delightful texture to each comforting bite.

Dive into this easy recipe and make dinner something everyone will remember.

Ingredients for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy main protein for the casserole that provides a hearty foundation for the dish.

• Sour Cream: Adds rich and tangy moisture to keep the chicken tender and flavorful.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a smooth and creamy base that enhances the overall texture of the casserole.
• Chicken Broth: Helps to thin the soup and adds extra depth of flavor to the dish.

• Ritz Crackers: Provides a crispy, buttery golden topping that adds delightful texture to the casserole.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp and salty flavor that complements the creamy chicken base.
• Butter: Helps bind the cracker topping and adds richness to the dish.
• Salt: Enhances the overall seasoning of the chicken.
• Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the chicken's flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Optional garnish that adds a fresh and bright finishing touch to the casserole.

How to Prepare Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prepare The Oven

Warm up your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil or rub with butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season The Chicken

Place chicken breasts in the baking dish. Sprinkle salt and pepper all over the chicken to add some delicious flavor.

Step 3: Create Crunchy Topping

• Crushed Ritz crackers
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Melted butter

Mix everything until the crackers are evenly coated with butter and cheese.

Step 4: Add Creamy Layer

Spread a generous layer of sour cream directly over the chicken breasts, creating a rich and tangy base.

Step 5: Pour Soup Mixture

• Cream of chicken soup
• Chicken broth

Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this liquid evenly over the sour cream and chicken.

Step 6: Top With Cracker Mixture

Sprinkle the prepared Ritz cracker mixture all over the top of the casserole, ensuring an even, crispy coverage.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping turns golden brown and wonderfully crispy.

Step 8: Rest And Garnish

Pull the casserole out of the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes to help the layers settle. If you want, scatter some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 9: Serve And Enjoy

Scoop out generous portions and serve hot alongside your favorite side dishes. Savor the creamy, crunchy goodness of this comforting casserole!

Pro Tips for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Boost Flavor Intensity: Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to elevate the chicken's taste profile and add depth to the casserole.
• Veggie Power Boost: Incorporate chopped broccoli, peas, or sliced mushrooms into the layers for extra nutrition and a delightful texture contrast.
• Cracker Crunch Perfection: Ensure Ritz crackers are evenly crushed to create a uniform, crispy topping that provides a satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Storage Savvy: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, reheating thoroughly in the oven to maintain the crispy topping's texture.

Variation Suggestions for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Gluten-Free Cracker Casserole: Replace Ritz crackers with gluten-free rice crackers or crushed gluten-free pretzels for a celiac-friendly version.
• Low-Sodium Herb Chicken Bake: Swap cream of chicken soup with homemade white sauce, use low-sodium broth, and add fresh thyme and rosemary for enhanced flavor without excess salt.
• Vegetarian Mushroom Alternative: Substitute chicken with thick-cut portobello mushrooms, use vegetable broth, and maintain the same creamy sauce and cracker topping for a plant-based option.
• Spicy Southwest Version: Mix in diced green chiles, sprinkle cayenne pepper into the cracker topping, and add shredded pepper jack cheese for a zesty southwestern-style casserole.

Pairing Ideas for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Pair with Crisp Chardonnay: Select a medium-bodied white wine with subtle oak notes that complements the creamy texture and buttery Ritz cracker topping, cutting through the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Serve with Roasted Asparagus Spears: Add bright green vegetable sides with light seasoning to balance the hearty chicken dish, providing a fresh contrast to the creamy casserole's dense texture.
• Match with Fresh Herb Salad: Create a light mixed green salad with delicate vinaigrette dressing to introduce brightness and acidity, which helps cleanse the palate between bites of the rich chicken casserole.

Storage Advice for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Transfer leftover casserole to an airtight container, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Preheat oven to 350F, place casserole in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes until heated through, ensuring crispy Ritz cracker topping stays crunchy.
• Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to distribute heat evenly.

FAQs About Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Can I use different types of crackers for the topping?

Yes, you can substitute Ritz crackers with other buttery crackers like Townhouse or Club crackers for a similar crunchy texture.

• Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free crackers and cream of chicken soup to create a gluten-free version of this dish.

• Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reasons to Enjoy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• Conquer Kitchen Simplicity: Create a mouthwatering meal with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps that even novice cooks can master confidently.
• Transform Weeknight Dinners: Deliver a satisfying, creamy chicken casserole that turns an ordinary meal into a crowd-pleasing experience everyone will love.
• Customize with Creativity: Easily adapt the recipe by adding vegetables, experimenting with different seasonings, or incorporating personal flavor preferences for a unique twist.
• Quick Comfort Food Solution: Prepare a hearty, delicious dish that requires minimal prep time and provides maximum satisfaction for hungry families and friends.

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Southern comfort meets creamy “Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole” with crispy golden topping and tender chicken layers. Comfort classics blend perfectly for hearty family dinners you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Cheese and Crackers:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

Sauce and Seasoning:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray.
2. Arrange chicken breasts in the prepared dish, ensuring they are evenly spaced and seasoned with salt and pepper.
3. Create a creamy base by whisking cream of chicken soup with chicken broth until completely smooth and lump-free.
4. Spread a generous layer of sour cream directly over the seasoned chicken breasts.
5. Pour the soup and broth mixture evenly across the sour cream layer, covering the entire surface of the chicken.
6. Combine crushed Ritz crackers with grated Parmesan cheese and melted butter in a separate bowl, mixing until the crackers are thoroughly coated.
7. Distribute the cracker mixture uniformly across the top of the casserole, creating a crispy and golden topping.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping turns a rich, golden brown.
9. Allow the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes after removing from the oven to help the layers set and cool slightly.
10. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and a hint of freshness before serving hot.

Notes

• Boost chicken flavor by rubbing herbs like thyme, rosemary, or garlic powder before baking to elevate the taste profile.
• Customize casserole with low-fat alternatives like Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup for a healthier version.
• Add colorful vegetables like diced bell peppers or frozen mixed vegetables to increase nutritional value and create a complete one-dish meal.
• Ensure chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer to guarantee safe and perfectly cooked protein every time.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 620 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 45 g
• Saturated Fat: 25 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 140 mg