Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that comes together with minimal effort. Featuring tender chicken and a rich, creamy sauce topped with buttery Ritz crackers, it’s a comforting family meal everyone will love. For another simple chicken dish, try this Easy Crack Chicken Tenders Recipe or explore more casserole options like this Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole Recipe.

Ingredients

This comforting casserole combines tender chicken and tangy sour cream with the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers for a satisfying meal that’s both creamy and crispy.

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	30 minutes
Total Time	45 minutes

Context: This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, cut 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. This uniform size ensures even cooking throughout the casserole.

Step 2 — Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3 — Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine one 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, ½ cup of chicken broth, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well-combined.

For a richer sauce, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. The consistency should be pourable but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 4 — Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the cooked chicken to the creamy sauce mixture and stir until all chicken pieces are evenly coated. Transfer this mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.

Step 5 — Prepare the Ritz Cracker Topping

Crush one sleeve of Ritz crackers (about 35 crackers) into coarse crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling with a rolling pin, or pulsing in a food processor.

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with ¼ cup of melted butter and ½ teaspoon of paprika until the crumbs are evenly moistened.

Step 6 — Add the Topping and Bake

Sprinkle the buttered Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the chicken and sauce in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.

The casserole is done when the filling is bubbly around the edges and the Ritz cracker topping is golden brown. If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Remove the Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. The casserole pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	26g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey or pork tenderloin — Lean protein alternatives with similar texture and mild flavor that absorb the creamy sauce well.
• Cauliflower rice base — Lower-carb option that creates a lighter casserole while maintaining creaminess.
• Coconut milk or cashew cream — Rich dairy-free alternatives that provide the same luxurious texture without dairy.
• Gluten-free crackers or almond flour topping — Perfect for gluten-free diets while adding nutty flavor and crunch.
• Low-sodium broth and reduced-sodium crackers — Maintains flavor while significantly cutting sodium content.
• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream — Adds protein and tang while reducing fat in the creamy sauce.
• Whole wheat cracker topping — Adds fiber and nutrients while keeping the signature crispy texture.
• Vegetable-packed version with broccoli and mushrooms — Increases nutrients and fiber while reducing the chicken proportion.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.
• Serve alongside a crisp garden salad with light vinaigrette to complement the rich, creamy texture.
• Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings where comfort food is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Make it a complete weeknight dinner with garlic mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.
• For a cozy Sunday supper, accompany with honey-glazed carrots and warm dinner rolls.
• Plate individual portions in shallow bowls to showcase the golden Ritz cracker topping.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness before serving.

This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is versatile enough for casual dinners yet impressive for entertaining, making it a reliable choice for any occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw chicken directly in the casserole. Fix: Always cook chicken first to ensure food safety and prevent watery results.
• Mistake: Overmixing the creamy sauce until it breaks. Fix: Gently fold ingredients to maintain a smooth, cohesive texture.
• Mistake: Adding Ritz crackers too early. Fix: Top during the last 15 minutes to preserve their signature buttery crunch.
• Mistake: Skipping the seasoning of each component. Fix: Season chicken, sauce, and topping separately for balanced flavor layers.
• Mistake: Using low-fat cream soups that thin out. Fix: Stick with regular cream of chicken soup for optimal creaminess and structure.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the baking dish with ingredients. Fix: Use a 9×13-inch dish to allow even heat distribution and proper browning.
• Mistake: Not letting the casserole rest before serving. Fix: Wait 10 minutes after baking for the sauce to thicken and set beautifully.
• Mistake: Substituting Ritz with breadcrumbs or other crackers. Fix: Ritz’s buttery flavor and light texture are essential—don’t compromise.
• Mistake: Baking at the wrong temperature. Fix: Use 375°F (190°C) for a golden top and thoroughly heated interior without burning.
• Mistake: Forgetting to grease the baking dish. Fix: Lightly coat with butter or spray to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat portions in a 350°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 20-25 minutes.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Conclusion

This Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for a busy weeknight. If you love this recipe, try our Ultimate Chicken Casserole Recipe or Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe next. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your review and subscribe for more easy dinner ideas!

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FAQs

Can I make Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this casserole a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving. The Ritz cracker topping may soften slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup in this recipe?

You can substitute cream of mushroom or celery soup for a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, make a simple white sauce from butter, flour, and milk for a homemade version of this Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole.

How do I prevent the Ritz cracker topping from burning?

Cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking, then remove it for the last 10 minutes to crisp the topping. This method ensures a golden-brown crust without burning in your Creamy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole.