Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish that combines tender chicken with a rich sauce, topped with buttery, crunchy Ritz crackers. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners and potlucks, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole is a delightful combination of creamy and crunchy elements. The tender chicken is enveloped in a rich, savory sauce, while the buttery Ritz cracker topping adds a satisfying crunch. It’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted
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1 cup sour cream
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soupThe Seasoned Mom+3The Spruce Eats+3Food.com+3
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½ cup chicken broth
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat the Oven:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
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Prepare the Chicken:
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Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
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Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
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Mix the Sauce:
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In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and well combined.
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Assemble the Casserole:
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Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully covered.
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Prepare the Topping:
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In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the grated Parmesan cheese.
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Drizzle the melted butter over the cracker mixture and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
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Add the Topping:
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Evenly sprinkle the cracker topping over the chicken and sauce in the baking dish.
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Bake:
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C) and the topping is golden brown.
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Serve:
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Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
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Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4Recettes Incroyables
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Preparation Time: 15 minutesThe Spruce Eats
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Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
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Total Time: 40-45 minutesThe Spruce Eats
Variations
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Cheesy Addition: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce mixture for an extra cheesy casserole.The Country Cook
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Vegetable Mix-In: Incorporate 1-2 cups of steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.Recettes Incroyables
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture for a spicy twist.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated thoroughly.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use 3-4 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken. Mix the cooked chicken with the sauce, place it in the baking dish, add the topping, and bake until heated through and the topping is golden brown.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes and then bake as directed.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content, which may separate upon thawing and affect the texture.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes.
Can I use a different type of cracker for the topping?
Yes, other buttery crackers or even panko breadcrumbs can be used, though Ritz crackers provide a distinct flavor and texture.
How can I ensure the cracker topping stays crispy?
Bake the casserole uncovered and serve immediately after resting to maintain the topping’s crispness.
Can I substitute the cream of chicken soup?
Yes, cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be used as alternatives.Recettes Incroyables+1The Seasoned Mom+1
Is there a lower-fat version of this recipe?
You can use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cream of chicken soup to reduce the fat content.
Can I add herbs to the sauce for more flavor?
Absolutely, adding herbs like thyme, parsley, or chives can enhance the flavor profile.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy and crunchy textures, making it a comforting dish for any occasion. Its simple preparation and delicious flavors are sure to make it a family favorite.
Print
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
Description
This cheesy crab Rangoon dip is a hot, creamy, and ultra-indulgent appetizer inspired by the classic Chinese takeout favorite. Blended with crab meat, cream cheese, garlic, and melted cheeses, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game day, parties, or any cheesy craving!
Ingredients
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1 1/2 cups crab meat, shredded (or imitation crab)
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 green onions, chopped
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Optional: 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1/4 tsp black pepper, dash of hot sauce
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Garnish: extra green onions or chopped chives
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
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Stir in crab meat, mozzarella, cheddar, garlic, green onions, and any optional seasonings.
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Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown on top.
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Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
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Garnish with additional green onions or chives and serve warm with wonton chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices.
Notes
For a spicy kick, stir in a few dashes of Sriracha or diced jalapeños.
Easily make it ahead – just refrigerate before baking and add 5–10 minutes to bake time.
Pairs perfectly with air-fried wonton chips, tortilla chips, or veggies for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baked