Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole Recipe

This creamy crunchy Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole is made with shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and buttery crackers, ready in 40 minutes. The golden cracker topping shatters perfectly over the bubbling, rich filling beneath it. I always look forward to scooping up that perfect ratio of crisp crust to creamy sauce.

Why This Classic Works

I used to overcomplicate weeknight dinners until I remembered the recipes I grew up eating. This dish relies on simple pantry staples to create comforting textures without hours of prep.

The biggest lesson I learned was to not skimp on the butter for the cracker topping. I once tried reducing it, and the crust burned instead of getting that signature rich, golden crunch.

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Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

How To Make Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole

1. 1. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. 2. Mix the wet base: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. 3. Fold in the chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir until the meat is completely coated.
4. 4. Spread into the dish: Transfer the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.
5. 5. Prepare the topping: Place the crushed Ritz crackers in a medium bowl and pour the melted butter over them, tossing until thoroughly coated.
6. 6. Bake and serve: Sprinkle the buttery crackers evenly over the chicken base and bake for 30 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.

Recipe Tips

• Use rotisserie chicken: Grab a cooked bird from the store to cut your prep time in half.
• Crush crackers lightly: Leave some larger cracker pieces in the mix for better texture rather than grinding them into dust.
• Shred your own cheese: If you decide to add cheddar to the filling, grate it fresh so it melts smoothly.

What To Serve With Chicken Casserole

A light, crisp green salad with a sharp vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli also work perfectly to round out the plate.

How To Store

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cracker topping will soften over time, so reheat portions in the oven or air fryer to bring back some of the crunch. I do not recommend freezing this, as the sour cream base can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use a different cream soup?

Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery work well if you do not have cream of chicken.

How do I keep the crackers from burning?

If the top browns too quickly, tent the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble the chicken filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Add the cracker topping right before baking so it stays crisp.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 22g
• Protein: 21g

Try More Recipes:

• Chicken Zucchini Casserole Recipe
• Chicken Tamale Casserole Recipe
• Cream of Chicken Casserole Recipe