Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for a comforting, creamy casserole that’s both easy to make and packs a crowd-pleasing crunch, this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. I absolutely love how it balances tender shredded chicken coated in that luscious cream-of-chicken mixture with the buttery, crispy topping made from crushed Ritz crackers—it’s like home-cooked satisfaction with a little something extra crispy on top.

When I first tried this recipe, it quickly became a family favorite because it’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together in no time. Whether you’re feeding a busy family on a weeknight or prepping for a casual potluck, you’ll find that the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is wonderfully versatile, comforting, and downright addictive.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe blends creamy, savory, and fresh ingredients that work so well together. Keep your eyes peeled for simple additions like chives and cayenne that give it just the right kick and brightness.

• Cooking spray: Use to grease your dish for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: The base for that rich, velvety sauce—feel free to use low sodium if you prefer.
• Cottage cheese: Adds a mild creaminess and some texture without weighing it down.
• Sour cream: Enhances tanginess and smooths out the casserole filling.
• Sliced chives: Gives subtle onion notes that brighten the dish beautifully.
• Garlic powder: Classic seasoning to deepen flavor without overpowering.
• Cayenne pepper: Just a little heat to keep things interesting.
• Cooked shredded chicken: I usually use leftover roast chicken, but rotisserie from the store works like a charm.
• Frozen peas, thawed: For a sweet pop of green that adds color and freshness.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Season to taste; it’s key for balanced flavor.
• Shredded cheddar: Melts into the filling and pairs perfectly with the cracker topping.
• Ritz crackers: Crushed for the buttery, golden crust that’s the star of the show.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Helps the cracker crumbs brown and crisp in the oven.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Optional but adds a lovely pop of color and freshness when sprinkled on top before serving.

Variations

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Whether I want it lighter, spicier, or veggie-packed, a small tweak makes all the difference.

• Swap the Peas: I’ve tried adding steamed broccoli or fresh spinach instead, and both work wonderfully for extra greens.
• Spicy Upgrade: Adding a dash more cayenne or even some smoked paprika kicks up the flavor if you like things hotter.
• Dairy-Free Version: I once substituted sour cream with coconut yogurt and used dairy-free cheese—taste was different but still tasty!
• Crunch Alternative: Crushed buttery crackers are a must, but I’ve made it with panko mixed with Parmesan for a lighter crust.

How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Mix the creamy filling

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly grease an 11″ x 8″ baking dish with cooking spray. In a large bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, sliced chives, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper until smooth and well combined. This combo creates a rich, flavorful filling that’s the heart of the casserole. When folding in your cooked shredded chicken and thawed peas, toss gently to keep the chicken tender and distribute ingredients evenly—season with freshly ground black pepper to your taste.

Step 2: Assemble and add cheese

Pour the creamy chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out so it’s smooth and even. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top; this melts into the filling as it bakes and adds an irresistible savory layer beneath your crunchy topping. I like to use sharp cheddar for that punch of flavor, but mild cheddar works just as well if that’s what you have on hand.

Step 3: Prepare the cracker crust and bake

In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted unsalted butter until all crumbs are moistened. Then sprinkle this buttery mixture evenly over the cheese layer. The cracker topping is the best part—it bakes to a beautiful golden brown and provides a delicate, buttery crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling. Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the top looks golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Step 4: Rest and garnish

Once out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5 minutes; this helps it set slightly so it serves more cleanly. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, bright garnish that complements the rich flavors perfectly. Then, dive in and enjoy!

How to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of fresh parsley as a simple, flavorful garnish—it brightens each bite and adds color to the creamy, golden casserole. Sometimes I also like to sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or even some sliced green onions for an oniony zest that pairs well with the creamy base.

Side Dishes

To round out the meal, I often serve this casserole alongside crisp green salads, roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans, or even simple garlic bread to mop up those creamy edges. My family also enjoys pairing it with a light coleslaw or steamed broccoli for an easy, balanced dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this casserole in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of cheese and herbs for a fancy touch. Another fun idea is layering it in a clear glass baking dish so your guests can admire the gorgeous, cheesy, crunchy layers before digging in!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the casserole cools, I transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the fridge. It keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making it a great meal to enjoy again for lunch or a quick dinner later in the week.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole both before and after baking—just cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating, and I usually add a little extra baking time if reheating frozen. The taste and texture stay surprisingly good!

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep that crunchy topping intact. I find microwaving makes it a bit soggy, so heating it slowly in the oven or even a toaster oven works best for bringing back that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe holds a sweet spot in my recipe box because it’s that comforting, no-fail dish that always makes everyone happy. I love how it turns simple ingredients into something special, and I know you’ll enjoy making it as much as I do sharing it. Give this one a try next time you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and perfectly crispy—it might just become your new favorite too!

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