Ritz Chicken Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Ritz Chicken Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining creamy chicken, flavorful herbs, and a crispy buttery Ritz cracker topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 10.5 ounce cream of chicken soup with herbs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers (crushed)
- ½ cup butter (melted)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350℉ and coat a 2-quart (or 8-inch) baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Italian seasoning until well combined. Fold in the cooked chicken.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top, then drizzle with the melted butter to create a golden crust.
- Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the crackers are golden and the casserole is hot and bubbly in the center.
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
- Add a cup of steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition.
- Swap Italian seasoning for ranch seasoning to change up the flavor profile.
- For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350℉ oven until heated through, about 15 minutes.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure it is fully thawed and cooked before mixing it into the casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole and cover it, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
PrintRitz Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ritz Chicken Casserole is a comforting, creamy chicken bake featuring tender shredded chicken mixed with a savory cream of chicken soup and sour cream base, topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers for a crunchy golden crust. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and comes together quickly in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup with herbs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Topping
- 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
- ½ cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 2-quart or 8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and Italian seasoning. Stir well until smooth. Add the cooked, shredded or diced chicken to the mixture and fold to combine evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form the base layer.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the chicken mixture. Drizzle the melted butter over the crackers to ensure a crispy, golden topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the center is hot and bubbly.
Notes
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken for convenience.
- For a lighter version, substitute light sour cream and use less butter or a butter alternative.
- Adding some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can enhance the creaminess and flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
Keywords: Ritz chicken casserole, creamy chicken bake, easy chicken casserole, baked chicken with Ritz crackers, comfort food
