Description

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming experience served up by a Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole. This decadent casserole marries the rich, savory flavors of rotisserie chicken with the creamy delight of a classic cream sauce, all topped off with a crunchy layer of buttery Ritz crackers that brings texture and irresistible flavor to every bite.

This recipe is perfect for families looking for a filling, crowd-pleasing meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. The dish is not only straightforward to prepare but also allows for endless customization, making it a staple in many households. Picture the aroma as it bakes, with hints of garlic and onion wafting from the oven while your guests eagerly anticipate what’s to come.

What truly sets this casserole apart is its versatility; you can easily adapt it to suit your dietary preferences or to incorporate whatever ingredients you have on hand. Alongside its creamy base, crisp topping, and tender chicken, this dish is as much about nostalgia as it is about satisfying hunger. As you dig in, you might find yourself reminiscing about family gatherings or potlucks where this dish became the highlight of the meal. Whether you’re creating new memories or revisiting cherished ones, this casserole is sure to bring joy to your dining table.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Mixture:
• 8 cups of densely packed shredded rotisserie chicken (from two whole rotisserie chickens)
• Two 10.5-ounce cans of cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup of thinly sliced scallions (plus additional for garnishing)
• One 8-ounce container of sour cream
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1.5 teaspoons of garlic powder
• 1.5 teaspoons of onion powder
• 1.5 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper
• 1.5 teaspoons of kosher salt
• For the Topping:
• 2 sleeves of buttery round crackers, such as Ritz®, crushed (approximately 60 crackers)
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing all the ingredients ahead of time. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process and ensure a more enjoyable experience. It can be helpful to lay out your ingredients on the counter, measure them out, and gather the necessary utensils—such as mixing bowls, a whisk, a spatula, and a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to ensure it's at the right temperature for baking. As the oven warms, focus on the chicken mixture. In your 9×13 inch baking dish, start by combining the shredded rotisserie chicken and the two cans of cream of chicken soup. The creamy soup acts as the foundation for this casserole, enveloping the chicken in a luscious sauce that’s both comforting and flavorful.

Next, add in the sliced scallions, which provide a fresh bite and a lovely pop of color. Follow with the 8-ounce container of sour cream; this will enhance the creaminess and richness of the casserole. Then, pour in the 1/2 cup of chicken broth to lighten the mixture just a touch, making the casserole less dense while contributing additional flavor. Stir in the tablespoon of Dijon mustard to introduce a subtle tang that plays off the creaminess beautifully.

Now it’s time to incorporate the spices. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and kosher salt into the mixture. These elements not only elevate the taste but also add complexity to the overall flavor profile. Ensure all the ingredients are well-combined, creating a hearty, flavorful filling ready to be spread evenly across the base of the baking dish.

While your chicken mixture is coming together, you can turn to the topping. In a separate mixing bowl, pour in the two sleeves of crushed Ritz crackers. You can crush the crackers by placing them in a resealable plastic bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin or simply using your hands—both methods are a fun way to relieve stress and ensure the pieces are just right. You’re looking for a mixture of both fine crumbs and slightly larger chunks to get that perfect crunch once baked.

Pour the melted unsalted butter over the crushed crackers, making sure all pieces are thoroughly coated. This buttery combination will create a crisp, golden-brown topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken mixture below. Take your time to mix until every crumb is glistening with butter, then gently spoon the cracker mixture over the chicken base. Spread it evenly without pressing down too hard; you want to maintain some airiness in the topping for that delightful crunch.

Once you’ve prepared the dish, it’s time for baking. Carefully slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and set a timer for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it during this time—the casserole is ready when it starts bubbling around the edges and the cracker topping turns an appetizing golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to resist; this is when the anticipation builds, and you’ll already start dreaming about taking that first bite.

As the casserole bakes to perfection, take a moment to prepare your garnishing. Additional sliced scallions provide a fresh and vibrant finish to your dish, enhancing both its appearance and flavor. Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven, and let it cool for a few moments before serving. This brief cooling time allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to scoop out portions without losing the shape.

When serving, generously garnish each plate with those reserved scallions for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. The combination of creamy, flavorful chicken and the crunchy topping is sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it hot for optimal enjoyment, and watch as your friends and family marvel at your culinary skills.

Tips and Conclusion

For an additional twist on this classic dish, consider substituting the rotisserie chicken with shredded turkey for a post-holiday repurposing of leftovers. You can enhance the flavor even more by adding diced vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms directly into the chicken mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt. This adaptation maintains the dish's creamy texture while reducing calories.

If you're preparing this casserole for a gathering, it can easily be made a day in advance, and you can store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and then pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve—just add an extra 10–15 minutes to the baking time, as it will be cold when you start.
In summary, preparing a Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is not only straightforward but also incredibly rewarding as you share it with loved ones. Each creamy, crunchy bite brings together comforting flavors and textures, creating an experience that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply looking for an easy weeknight meal, this casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It invites creativity, allowing you to adapt and personalize the recipe according to your preferences or what you have on hand.

If you loved this recipe, be sure to explore more of our delicious offerings! Like our creamy pasta dishes, hearty soups, or quick weeknight meals. Thank you for joining us in the kitchen today—be sure to share this recipe with friends or family who might be eager to dive into their culinary adventure. Keep browsing our site for more flavorful creations, tips, and cooking inspiration, ensuring that your next meal is unforgettable!