Short Description

Indulge in a cozy, creamy casserole featuring tender shredded chicken, a rich sour cream and soup base, all topped with buttery Ritz crackers and melted cheddar. A satisfying and nostalgic dish ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate comfort food: Creamy interior meets a crispy, golden cracker-cheese layer.
Easy to prepare: Pantry-friendly ingredients and minimal effort deliver big flavor.
Family-pleaser: Hearty enough for dinner, yet simple enough for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked, shredded boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cream of chicken soup
Sour cream
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Shredded cheddar cheese
Crushed Ritz crackers
Melted butter
Salt & pepper

Directions

Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
Layer the Casserole: Spread this mixture evenly in the prepared dish.
Make the Topping: In a small bowl, toss crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until thoroughly coated.
Top & Layer Cheese: Sprinkle the buttered crackers over the chicken mixture, then evenly top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly throughout and the top is golden and crispy.
Serve: Let rest a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm and creamy bites in every spoonful.

Servings and Timing

Yield: Serves 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes

Variations

Add veggies: Stir in 1 cup of cooked broccoli, mushrooms, or peas for added nutrition and color.
Spicy twist: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or chopped jalapeños to the chicken mix.
Cheese swap: Mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a spicy edge.
Crunch alternative: Substitute crushed tortilla chips or gluten-free crackers for a different crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350 °F oven until warmed through and the topping is crisp again, or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes—shredded rotisserie chicken makes prep faster and adds flavorful depth.

2. Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cream soup and gluten-free crackers (such as GF Ritz-style crackers) to enjoy a gluten-free version.

3. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—add cooked broccoli, carrots, peas, or mushrooms for freshness and color.

4. Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes—assemble in the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Bake before serving.

5. What can replace Ritz crackers?

Use breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or even crushed pretzels for varied textures and tastes.

6. Is there a healthier version?

Use light sour cream and reduce butter slightly, or substitute with Greek yogurt for creaminess with fewer calories.

7. Can I reheat in the oven without drying it out?

Yes—cover with foil and reheat at 325 °F until heated through, then remove foil for a few minutes to crisp the topping.

8. How do I make extra cheesy?

Sprinkle additional cheese halfway through baking for a gooier, cheesier top.

9. Can I add bacon?

Yes—stir in cooked crumbled bacon or sprinkle on top before serving for a smoky crunch.

10. How can I serve this?

Pair with a crisp salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

The Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole offers a comforting blend of creamy chicken, crispy topping, and melty cheese. Simple to assemble yet incredibly satisfying, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a warm, homey meal.