Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

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Creamy, comforting, and crowned with a buttery crunch, Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table without a single complaint. Tender shredded chicken is folded into a rich, savory sauce, then baked beneath a golden layer of crushed Ritz crackers that crisp up beautifully in the oven.

This is one of those dependable family meals you can pull together on a busy weeknight, bring to a potluck, or prepare ahead for a cozy Sunday dinner. Every bite delivers creamy texture, savory flavor, and that irresistible buttery crunch on top.

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What Makes Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole So Good?

The magic is in the contrast. The filling is smooth and creamy thanks to a blend of chicken, soup, and sour cream, while the topping bakes into a golden crust with just the right amount of crunch.

Ritz crackers add a slightly buttery, lightly salty finish that pairs perfectly with the creamy base. It’s simple, nostalgic comfort food that never goes out of style.

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Ingredients for the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

• 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)

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How To Make the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Buttery Ritz Topping

In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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Serving and Storing Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted sides. Try it alongside Oven Roasted Root Vegetables for a hearty dinner or keep things light with a crisp salad.

To store leftovers, cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy topping. If microwaving, the topping will soften but the flavor remains delicious.

You can also freeze the casserole (without the cracker topping) for up to 2 months. Add fresh crushed crackers and butter before baking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred and measure.

Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup?

Absolutely. Cream of mushroom or even cream of celery can be used for a slightly different flavor.

How do I make it lighter?

Use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. You can also swap half the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes. Steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms mix in well with the chicken filling.

Why is my topping soggy?

Make sure the casserole isn’t covered while baking. Also, bake until bubbly so excess moisture cooks off.

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Want More Chicken Casserole Ideas?

If you enjoy this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, you might also love these comforting dishes:

• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a creamy, classic twist.
• Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti when you want an easy slow cooker option.
• One-Pan Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta for cozy comfort in pasta form.
• Slow Cooker Creamy Ranch Chicken for a hands-off dinner solution.

Each one brings its own rich, satisfying flavor to the table.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And if you make this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add vegetables? Try a different cheese? Make it extra crispy on top?

For even more daily comfort food inspiration, visit my Pinterest here:
👉 https://www.pinterest.com/ninadishes/

Let’s keep making simple, satisfying meals together.

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