Description
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and loved by the whole family, this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is your answer. With tender shredded chicken, a creamy savory base, melty cheese, and a golden buttery Ritz cracker topping, this dish is a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy gatherings, or when you need quick dinner ideas, this easy recipe delivers on both flavor and simplicity. It also fits well into your rotation of food ideas for quick dinners or potluck favorites.
Ingredients
4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 30 crackers)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)
1 cup cooked broccoli florets or frozen peas
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and 1 cup of cheese. Mix well.
3. Fold in any optional vegetables if using, such as broccoli or peas.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheese over the top.
6. Crush Ritz crackers and toss with melted butter until evenly coated.
7. Evenly distribute cracker mixture over the cheese layer.
8. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
9. Remove from oven, let sit 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
You can use leftover turkey instead of chicken—great for post-holiday meals.
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-rich twist.
For a gluten-free version, replace Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed cornflakes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 casserole
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: ritz cracker chicken casserole, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, casserole idea