Description

This casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings together a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and a crunchy topping. While there are countless versions of casseroles, this particular dish stands out with its rich, savory layers that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It's a simple, satisfying recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Prepare to impress your loved ones with a casserole that's sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups of crushed Ritz crackers (or any buttery cracker)
• 4 tablespoons of melted butter
• 2 cups of steamed broccoli florets (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, and 1 and a half cups of cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Optionally add steamed broccoli.
3. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until well coated.
5. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining half cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven for 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.

Tips and Conclusion

To enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole, consider adding a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper to the cracker topping for a subtle kick. You can also swap out the Ritz crackers for Panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture, or even mix some Parmesan into the topping for an extra savory layer.

This casserole recipe is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also ideal for feeding a large group. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or at a family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. The creamy chicken base combined with the buttery, crunchy topping makes each bite irresistible. Don't forget to experiment with different ingredients—add vegetables or change up the cheese to make it your own. And the best part? It makes for great leftovers, so you can enjoy it again the next day!