Lunch & Dinner

Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Name: Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 10 ½ oz can of condensed chicken soup; 1 cup of thick sour cream; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Susan Roberts March 19, 2025

Servings: 8 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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When serving Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole, pairing it with the right sides can take the meal from comforting to exceptional. Garlic bread is a perfect choice, offering a crunchy exterior and soft interior that complements the casserole’s creamy texture and richness.

Steamed broccoli adds a burst of green and a touch of bitterness, balancing the richness of the cheese and sauce beautifully. A crispy salad made with romaine or spinach and a light vinaigrette is another great option, providing a refreshing contrast and a nice, crisp texture.

To add a bit of sweetness, a chilled fruit salad can lighten the meal and offer a delightful contrast to the savory casserole. Finally, roasted asparagus, drizzled with a bit of olive oil and salt, adds an elegant touch and pairs wonderfully with any creamy dish. These sides will round out your Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole, creating a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

What is Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole?

Simply put, Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole is a creamy and satisfying dish made from cooked chicken, a velvety mixture of sour cream, condensed soup, and spices, all layered under a crispy topping of buttery Ritz crackers. You can find this dish in various homes, especially during potlucks or family gatherings.

The base of cooked, shredded chicken ensures that each bite is packed with protein, while the Ritz cracker topping adds that coveted crunch. Think of it as a comforting embrace in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings or when you need a little extra coziness in your life.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole

Several things set this casserole apart. First, the flavor profile is incredible. The combination of the tangy Dijon mustard with the rich sour cream and chicken soup creates a depth of taste that’s utterly comforting.

It reminds me of family gatherings where the smell of baking casseroles filled the air, and laughter echoed through the halls.

Second, the preparation is foolproof. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip this up. Just gather your ingredients, mix them together, and bake. Voilà! A dish that looks like you slaved over it for hours, but really? You just had fun in the kitchen whipping up something fantastic.

Lastly, versatility is the name of the game. Want to sneak in some veggies? Throw in some peas or spinach. Have leftover turkey instead of chicken? Go for it! This dish adapts beautifully to your personal preferences while still being delicious.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:

1 sleeve of Ritz crackers (crumbled)
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy kick)
4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (fully cooked)
10 ½ oz can of condensed chicken soup
1 cup of thick sour cream
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A bit of warm-up helps everything come together nicely, ensuring an evenly cooked casserole.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, condensed chicken soup, sour cream, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined. Give it a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure every corner is filled.

Step 4: Prepare the Cracker Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the crumbled Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Make sure every piece of cracker gets a good coating. Then, sprinkle this buttery goodness evenly over the chicken mixture.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the cracker layer. It’ll melt beautifully while baking.

Step 6: Bake

Pop the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown, and the casserole should be bubbly around the edges.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This cooling time allows the flavors to settle. Serve with one of those great pairings mentioned earlier!

Notes

Before diving in, here are some tips to enhance your experience:

Use Rotisserie Chicken: If time is tight, store-bought rotisserie chicken saves you the hassle of cooking and shredding.
Add Vegetables: Sneak in some veggies like peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
For Extra Flavor: Try adding a sprinkle of paprika or Italian seasoning to the chicken mixture for an additional flavor boost.
Check Doneness: Every oven is different. Make sure the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown before pulling it out.
Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set for easier serving.

Storage Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Alternatively, you can freeze portions for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Looking to elevate the dining experience? Here are some great suggestions for serving your Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole:

Serve with a crisp green salad. It adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole.
Pair with a light vinaigrette dressing. This cuts through the creaminess and enhances flavors.
Add a squeeze of lemon. Brighten the dish up with a splash of citrus over each serving.
Offer assorted hot sauces on the side. Challenge your guests to spice things up according to their taste.
Add fresh herbs as a garnish. Chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole?

If you’re running low on some ingredients or just feeling creative, here are some alternatives:

Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a healthier option, swap regular sour cream for Greek yogurt. It adds a tangy twist and extra protein.
Cream of Mushroom Soup instead of Chicken Soup: For a hearty variation, try using cream of mushroom soup. It pairs incredibly well with chicken.
Crushed Potato Chips instead of Ritz Crackers: Don’t have Ritz crackers? Use crushed potato chips. They’ll provide a unique flavor and crunch.
Turkey in place of Chicken: Leftover Thanksgiving turkey works great in this recipe. The flavors meld wonderfully.
Non-Dairy Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, try using vegan butter and plant-based cream. Just make sure to check the flavors against your chicken.

Conclusion

The Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole is truly a wonder of a dish. It brings together simplicity and flavor in a way that delights and satisfies. From the ease of preparation to the endless ways to modify it, this casserole is a home cook’s dream.

Remember, cooking is not just about feeding the body; it’s about bringing people together and creating memories. So gather your loved ones around the table, dish out this flavorful casserole, and celebrate the wholesome joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal.

Your taste buds—and your guests—will thank you!

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Print Recipe

Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole – Sweet Mama’s Kitchen

Author: Susan Roberts Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 452 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

If you’re on the lookout for a crowd-pleaser that combines ease and comfort, you’ve landed in the right place. Picture this: a warm, cheesy casserole topped with crunchy Ritz crackers.

The first time I stumbled upon the Chicken Ritz Cracker Casserole recipe, I wasn't expecting much. Just a few ingredients, seasoned chicken, and—voilà! A hug-in-a-dish that’s sure to impress.

Trust me; this isn’t just another casserole. It’s a hearty dish that strikes the perfect balance between homely comfort and gourmet allure. Your family will adore it. Friends will demand the recipe, and you? You’ll bask in the culinary acclaim.