I’m so excited to share my favorite comfort food with you today—the Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole! This dish has been a family favorite for years, and I have to confess, it’s one of those meals that brings back all the warm and fuzzy feels. My mom used to whip this up on chilly evenings, and now it’s become a staple in my own kitchen. The crunch from the Ritz crackers mixed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and just a hint of cheese creates a magical combination that never fails to please a crowd.
What makes this casserole truly special for me is not just its delightful taste, but the way it brings everyone together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or those near and dear gatherings. There’s a certain joy in serving up a hearty helping of this casserole and watching everyone dig in with big smiles. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare, so you can enjoy more time with your loved ones and less time cooking in the kitchen!
What’s in Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
Chicken: I typically use cooked, shredded chicken for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken works like a charm and saves so much time! Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before shredding.
Ritz Crackers: These buttery crackers are essential for that signature crunchy topping. Just crush them up to achieve the perfect texture you want for your casserole.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the base that binds all the ingredients together. I prefer the low-sodium version for a healthier twist.
Milk: It adds creaminess and helps blend everything evenly while preventing the casserole from being too thick.
Shredded Cheese: I go for cheddar cheese because its sharpness pairs wonderfully with the other flavors. Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack or even a Mexican blend if you’re feeling adventurous!
Onion Powder and Garlic Powder: These provide an extra layer of flavor without needing to chop up fresh onions or garlic, which is perfect for a speedy prep!
Is Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Good for You?
While this casserole is indulgent and oh-so-delicious, moderation is key!
Chicken: Naturally packed with protein, chicken is a lean meat option that can be part of a healthy meal.
Ritz Crackers: These crackers are definitely on the indulgent side, being high in fat and sodium, so it’s good to keep in mind that they should be enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a pantry staple.
Cream of Chicken Soup: Though it adds great flavor, it’s wise to be cautious with store-bought versions that can be high in preservatives and sodium. Opting for homemade cream soup or low-sodium canned options can be a healthier choice.
In short, this casserole can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation, and it’s vital to keep an eye on portion sizes!
Ingredients
– 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (about 2 medium-sized rotisserie chickens)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (I like Campbell’s)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your cheese of choice)
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup melted butter (for extra richness)
This casserole serves about 6-8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or leftovers for lunch!
How to Make Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, you’ll want to get that oven warmed up for the deliciousness to come!
2. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Stir until all the cracker crumbs are coated in butter—this is where the magic happens!
5. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the chicken mixture, followed by the shredded cheese evenly on top.
6. Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a bit (if you can resist!) and serve warm. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Casserole Game
– Pair it with a simple side salad for a colorful, refreshing contrast.
– Add some steamed broccoli or green beans for a touch of veggies.
– Feeling adventurous? Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or diced bell peppers to the chicken mixture for extra flavor.
You’ve got to give this Easy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole a try! I know you and your family will love it as much as mine does. It’s comforting, tasty, and reminds me of the warmth of home. Share your experiences or even your personal twists on the recipe—I can’t wait to hear what you think! Happy cooking!