Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen, where comfort food reigns supreme! I’m Meriem, a passionate chef and food blogger, and today I’m sharing a recipe that’s close to my heart: Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole. This dish is the ultimate blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and a buttery, crispy topping that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a love letter to comfort food. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, it’s ideal for busy evenings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy filling and crunchy topping appeal to kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Use leftover chicken or swap ingredients to suit your pantry.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance for stress-free meals.
• Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

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What you will need? 

Here’s everything you need to create this delicious casserole:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  Use: Adds protein and heartiness.
  Substitutions: Swap with shredded turkey, rotisserie chicken, or canned chicken for convenience. For a vegetarian twist, try diced tofu or chickpeas.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  Use: Provides rich, melty flavor.
  Substitutions: Use Monterey Jack for a milder taste, mozzarella for extra stretch, or a Mexican blend for a slight kick. Dairy-free? Opt for vegan cheddar.
• 1 cup cooked white rice
  Use: Adds texture and absorbs flavors.
  Substitutions: Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Cooked pasta like orzo works too!
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  Use: Creates a creamy, savory base.
  Substitutions: Use cream of celery or cream of broccoli for a different flavor. For homemade, make a quick béchamel with flour, butter, and chicken broth.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  Use: Enhances creaminess with earthy notes.
  Substitutions: Double up on cream of chicken or use cream of onion. Gluten-free? Look for certified GF condensed soups.
• 1/2 cup milk
  Use: Thins the mixture for a smooth consistency.
  Substitutions: Use half-and-half for richness, almond milk for dairy-free, or chicken broth for a lighter texture.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  Use: Adds savory depth.
  Substitutions: Fresh minced garlic (1 clove) or garlic salt (reduce added salt).
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
  Use: Boosts flavor without chopping.
  Substitutions: Finely diced fresh onion (1/4 cup) or dried minced onion.
• 1/4 tsp salt
  Use: Enhances all flavors.
  Substitutions: Sea salt, kosher salt, or skip if using salty cheese or soups.
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  Use: Adds a mild kick.
  Substitutions: White pepper for a subtler heat or cayenne for spice lovers.
• 2 cups Ritz crackers, crushed
  Use: Creates the iconic crunchy topping.
  Substitutions: Saltines, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed cornflakes. Gluten-free crackers work too!
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  Use: Binds the topping for golden crispiness.
  Substitutions: Margarine, olive oil, or vegan butter for dairy-free.

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Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl for topping
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Oven mitts
• Optional: Food processor for crushing crackers

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Step-By-Step Guiding

Let’s make this casserole step-by-step with tips to ensure perfection:

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Tip: Preheating ensures even cooking. If your oven runs hot, check the casserole a few minutes early.
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups shredded chicken, 1 cup cooked rice, 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 can cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper.
   • Stir until everything is evenly mixed. The mixture should be creamy but not runny.
   • Tip: Shred chicken finely for better texture. If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin for a smoother bite.
   • Why This Works: The soups and milk create a luscious base, while spices add depth without overpowering.
3. Add the Cheese
   • Fold in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a handful for sprinkling on top if desired.
   • Tip: Grate your own cheese for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect texture.
   • Variation: Mix in half cheddar and half mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   • Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for uniform cooking.
   • Tip: Tap the dish gently to settle the mixture and remove air pockets.
   • Make-Ahead: At this point, you can cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
5. Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping
   • In a small bowl, combine 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers with 1/4 cup melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
   • Tip: Crush crackers in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin for less mess. Aim for coarse crumbs, not powder, for texture.
   • Variation: Add 1/4 tsp paprika or dried parsley to the topping for color and flavor.
6. Top and Bake
   • Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. Ensure full coverage for maximum crunch.
   • Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
   • Tip: If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil. Check doneness by inserting a knife; the center should be hot.
7. Cool and Serve
   • Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps it set for cleaner slices.
   • Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

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Topping Suggestions

Elevate your casserole with these creative toppings:

• Extra Cheese: Sprinkle more cheddar or Parmesan before baking.
• Bacon Bits: Add crispy bacon for smoky flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh chives or dried Italian seasoning for freshness.
• Spicy Kick: Crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Nuts: Slivered almonds or pecans for added crunch.

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How to Store & Reheat

• Storage:
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
  • Freeze the baked casserole (without topping) for up to 2 months. Add fresh topping when reheating.
  • Tip: Portion into single servings for easy grab-and-go meals.
• Reheating:
  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.
  • Tip: Sprinkle extra crushed Ritz crackers post-reheating for crunch.

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What to Serve With

Pair this casserole with these sides for a complete meal:

• Green Salad: A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
• Roasted Veggies: Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus add color and nutrition.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up creamy goodness.
• Mashed Potatoes: For an indulgent comfort food feast.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing contrast to the savory casserole.

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FAQs

Print

This Crunchy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its creamy interior, cheesy goodness, and buttery, crispy topping, it’s a recipe that brings people together. Whether you’re a busy parent or a home cook looking for comfort, this dish delivers every time. Try it for your next family dinner, and don’t forget to experiment with toppings or sides to make it your own. Happy cooking!