If you’re looking for a warm, creamy, and crispy meal that feels like a hug on a plate, this chicken casserole with Ritz crackers is it. I stumbled on this recipe idea when I had leftover chicken and a half-empty sleeve of Ritz crackers.
I didn’t expect much, but when that golden buttery crust came out of the oven, I was hooked. And trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know.
Why This Chicken Casserole Works Every Time
This dish has the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy chicken filling is soft and rich, while the Ritz crackers bring that crunchy, buttery top layer that makes each bite exciting.
Unlike fancy recipes that need dozens of ingredients, this one keeps it simple. You’re basically working with chicken, cream of soup (like cream of chicken or mushroom), sour cream, and crackers. That’s it.
It works because:
- It’s easy – dump, mix, bake.
- It’s versatile – add veggies, swap cheeses, use turkey if you want.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser – kids and adults both clean their plates.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this comfort meal:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, rotisserie works best)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for extra flavor)
- 1 cup sour cream (for creaminess)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed)
- ½ cup butter (melted, to mix with crackers)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar is classic, but mix it up if you like)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins: peas, corn, broccoli, or a little garlic powder for kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven – set it to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the filling – in a large bowl, combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half the cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the topping – crush the Ritz crackers in a zip bag, then stir them with the melted butter.
- Assemble the casserole – spread the chicken mixture in a greased baking dish, sprinkle the rest of the cheese, and then top with the buttery crackers.
- Bake – pop it in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve – let it sit for a few minutes before scooping.
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Use rotisserie chicken – saves time and adds flavor.
- Mix cheeses – cheddar + mozzarella makes it creamier.
- Add veggies – broccoli and peas taste great here.
- Spice it up – add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for a mild kick.
- Make ahead – assemble it in the morning, cover, and just bake when ready.
What to Serve with Chicken Casserole
This casserole is filling on its own, but if you want a full dinner, try pairing it with:
- A simple green salad
- Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort meal
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s comfort without complication. It’s the kind of food you want when you’re tired, when it’s cold outside, or when you just need something that makes you feel good. And honestly? It’s one of those dishes where people will ask you for the recipe after tasting it.
That crispy cracker topping is the secret weapon. It turns plain chicken into something you’ll crave.
FAQs About Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover, and keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add the cracker topping right before baking so it stays crunchy.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Q: What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
You can use saltines, cornflakes, or even breadcrumbs, but Ritz gives the best buttery crunch.
Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, this is a great way to use leftover turkey from holidays.
Q: How do I make it lighter?
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt, use low-fat cream soup, and cut back on the butter for the topping.
