Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
When you’re craving a quick and delicious dinner that’s full of flavor and comforting, Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the dish you need. With a creamy interior and a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping, it’s the kind of meal that everyone at the table will love. Perfect for weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
In this article, we’ll guide you through how to prepare this comforting casserole, with step-by-step instructions and tips to help you achieve the perfect results. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to bring warmth to your dinner table.
Table of Contents:
Ingredients for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Variations and Customizations
Serving Suggestions
Making Ahead and Storage Instructions
Nutritional Information
Final Thoughts
1. Ingredients for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Before diving into the preparation process, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need for this dish:
For the Chicken Casserole:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star of the casserole. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer, but breasts work well for a leaner option.
Salt and pepper, to taste – To season the chicken and enhance the flavors.
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed – These crackers form the golden, buttery topping that adds texture and flavor.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – A touch of cheese gives the cracker topping extra flavor and richness.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – The melted butter helps bind the cracker crumbs together and creates that irresistible crunch.
1 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor to the dish, balancing out the richness of the butter and cheese.
1 can cream of chicken soup – A classic ingredient for casseroles, it makes the sauce creamy and flavorful.
1/2 cup chicken broth – Adds a little extra moisture and helps create the perfect consistency for the sauce.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – Garnishes the dish for a touch of freshness and color.
2. Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s go over how to make this delicious casserole.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides, and place them in the prepared baking dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth until well combined.
Pour this mixture over the chicken breasts in the baking dish, making sure the chicken is coated evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping
In a separate bowl, crush the Ritz crackers into small crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a plastic bag and crushing them with a rolling pin or by using a food processor.
Mix the crushed crackers with the grated Parmesan cheese and the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, making sure to cover the chicken and sauce mixture completely.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken slightly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Serve the casserole hot, with your choice of sides.
3. Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
To ensure your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole comes out perfect every time, here are a few helpful tips and tricks:
Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: If you want a juicier, more flavorful casserole, you can swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs will retain moisture better while cooking, giving the dish a richer taste.
Make Sure the Chicken Is Evenly Coated: When adding the sour cream and soup mixture, make sure to spread it evenly over the chicken to ensure each piece is well-coated. This will help the chicken cook more evenly.
Crunchy Topping: If you like your Ritz cracker topping extra crunchy, you can add an extra layer of crackers or toast the casserole for a few extra minutes at the end of the bake time to crisp it up further.
Fresh or Dried Herbs: While parsley is optional, feel free to use other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs add brightness, while dried herbs will contribute a more earthy, robust flavor.
Use Full-Fat Sour Cream: Using full-fat sour cream will result in a creamier, richer sauce. However, if you’re looking to reduce calories, low-fat sour cream can be substituted.
4. Variations and Customizations
The beauty of casseroles is that they are easily customizable! Here are some ideas to take your Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole to the next level:
Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, you can include frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli in the casserole. Simply layer them between the chicken and the sauce or mix them directly into the sauce.
Cheese Lovers: If you love cheesy casseroles, try adding shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella to the top before baking for an extra gooey and cheesy layer.
Make It Spicy: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix in some chopped jalapeños with the Ritz crackers.
Swap Out the Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can swap the cream of chicken soup for a homemade white sauce or a cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor.
5. Serving Suggestions
This casserole is already a complete meal on its own, but if you want to pair it with sides, here are a few ideas:
Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted green beans, asparagus, or carrots for a balanced, nutritious meal.
Mashed Potatoes: For an extra comforting dish, mashed potatoes make the perfect pairing with the creamy casserole.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the casserole, making for a more refreshing side.
Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce.
6. Making Ahead and Storage Instructions
Making Ahead:
Prepare the casserole (up to the point of baking) and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and cook as directed. You may need to increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking directly from the fridge.
Storage:
Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 2 months. Let it cool before covering and storing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings):
Calories: 400-450
Protein: 35g
Fat: 27g
Carbs: 15g
Sodium: 850mg
Fiber: 1g
For a healthier version, try using low-fat sour cream, low-sodium broth, and lean chicken breasts.
8. Final Thoughts
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the definition of comfort food—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a dish for a crowd, this casserole will not disappoint. The combination of creamy chicken and a crunchy, cheesy topping makes for an unforgettable meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
So grab your Ritz crackers and chicken breasts, and get ready to enjoy a classic casserole that will make your taste buds sing. This dish is truly the ultimate comfort food, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite in kitchens across the world!