Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that packs a flavorful punch. Combining tender chicken with creamy ingredients and a crunchy topping, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyone at the dinner table. It’s a simple recipe that makes for a hearty meal, great for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole recipe is not just tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare. You can whip it up in no time and let your oven do the magic. The unique crunch from the Ritz crackers adds a delightful texture, while the creamy base ensures that each bite is rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use everyday ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen.
How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Making Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a straightforward process. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a warm and delicious meal ready to serve.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter together.
- Spread the sour cream evenly over the chicken in the dish.
- In another bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth, then pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the Ritz cracker mixture on top of everything.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
This casserole is best served warm straight from the oven. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Store Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
- Ensure that your chicken is evenly seasoned for the best flavor throughout.
- For extra crunch, consider adding more crushed Ritz crackers on top.
- You can substitute the chicken for turkey or other proteins to mix things up, but adjust the cooking time if necessary.
Variation
Feel free to customize this casserole by incorporating your favorite vegetables like broccoli or peas. You can also use different types of cheese like cheddar for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you will need to increase the baking time to ensure it cooks through.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just bake it when ready to serve.
3. What can I serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with simple sides like salads, steamed vegetables, or rice for a filling meal.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Seasoned with salt and pepper
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed For topping
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese For added flavor
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted To bind the topping
- 1 cup sour cream Creamy base layer
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Provides moisture and richness
- ½ cup chicken broth For extra flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Optional garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter together.
- Spread the sour cream evenly over the chicken in the dish.
- In another bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth, then pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the Ritz cracker mixture on top of everything.
Baking
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
