Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a creamy, flavorful dish that your family will adore! With its crunchy Ritz cracker topping and tender, juicy chicken, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, and my kids couldn’t get enough! Did you know that casseroles like this one have been bringing families together for generations? It’s an easy-to-make, hearty meal that doesn’t take much time to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights. If you love dishes like my Cheesy Broccoli Casserole, you’ll want to add this one to your recipe box! So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s gather up those ingredients!

What is Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?

So, what’s the deal with the name Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole? Is it a five-star gourmet dish, or just a simple family dinner? Picture this: tender chicken swimming in a creamy sauce, crowned with a golden, crunchy layer of Ritz crackers. Yes, you heard right! Named after the famous Ritz crackers that give it that delightful crunch, this dish seems to say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!” Don’t you love how something so humble can become so hearty? Grab your apron, channel your inner chef, and let’s make this dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This

Why should you whip up a batch of Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole? First off, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The creamy sauce and crispy crackers create a delightful contrast that dances in your mouth. Secondly, it’s cost-effective! You can serve a delicious meal to your family without breaking the bank, especially compared to restaurant prices. Plus, the versatility of toppings makes it an endless adventure in the kitchen! Whether you want to throw in some vegetables or try a different cheese, you have the freedom to customize it. If you’re looking for something equally satisfying, don’t forget to check out my Chicken Alfredo Bake! It’s another hit that’ll kick official family dinners up a notch. Why not give this recipe a try tonight?

How to Make

Quick Overview

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a cinch to put together! With its creamy sauce and crunchy topping, you can enjoy major comfort food in how little preparation time it takes. It only takes about 15 minutes to prep, followed by 35-40 minutes in the oven.

Ingredients

To make this delectable Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, you will need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure an even cooking temperature as your casserole bakes.
2. Prepare Your Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
3. Season the Chicken: Take the chicken breasts and season them with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Arrange in Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
5. Make the Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix well.
6. Spread the Sauce: Spread the sour cream evenly over the chicken in the baking dish.
7. Add Soup and Broth: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
8. Top with Crackers: Finally, evenly distribute the Ritz cracker mixture over the top of everything.
9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown.
10. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy hot!

What to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole With

This delicious casserole pairs wonderfully with a light side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the main dish. You might also consider serving it with fluffy mashed potatoes or a crusty garlic bread to soak up all that creamy goodness. For a refreshing drink, an iced tea or lemonade would be perfect!

Top Tips for Perfecting

To make your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole even better, here are some helpful tips:

• For added flavor, consider using garlic powder or your favorite seasoning blend on the chicken.
• If you’re looking to lighten things up, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt.
• Be careful not to overcook the chicken; perfectly cooked chicken should be juicy and tender.
• You can pre-chop vegetables, such as broccoli or spinach, to mix in for extra nutrition.
• If you have leftovers, to avoid sogginess, store the cracker topping separately and re-add it when reheating.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, this casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cover it tightly! To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. For optimal flavor, re-add fresh Ritz cracker topping on the surface before baking again.

FAQs

Can I use different crackers instead of Ritz?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of crackers or even chips for a unique twist.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and bake it the next day when you’re ready to eat.

What if I want to make it gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs as a substitute for Ritz crackers.

Conclusion

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that combines comfort and flavor in the best way possible! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or planning a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress! So gather your ingredients and give this easy recipe a try today. Your taste buds will thank you!