There’s nothing quite like the warmth that fills the kitchen when a bubbly casserole comes out of the oven. Recently, I found myself craving a dish that combined comfort with simplicity—a recipe that echoed cozy nights spent gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. Enter my Crispy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole!
This creamy, cheesy delight blends tender chicken with vibrant peas, all wrapped in a rich, no-cook sauce that you can whip up in no time. Topped with a crunchy layer of Ritz crackers, every bite offers a comforting crunch and hearty flavor that’s perfect for those chilly evenings or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special without breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable—feel free to swap in leftover turkey or toss in your favorite mixed veggies. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking something that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why is Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole a Hit?
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Effortless prep means you can have dinner ready in under an hour. Flavor-packed with creamy goodness from cottage cheese and sour cream, it’s a hearty meal everyone will love. Endless customization allows you to swap in leftover turkey or seasonal veggies. Perfectly crispy topping adds a delightful crunch to each bite, making it visually appealing and satisfying. This casserole is your new go-to for cozy nights and gathering friends—it’s bound to impress!
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Ingredients
• Dive into the components of this cozy dish!
For the Casserole
- Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking; use a quality spray for an even coating.
- Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup (10.75 oz) – This serves as the base for the creamy sauce; you can substitute with cream of mushroom for added flavor.
- Cottage Cheese (3/4 cup, 4%) – Adds creaminess and protein; for a lighter option, a low-fat version can be used.
- Sour Cream (3/4 cup) – This contributes tanginess and richness; Greek yogurt also makes a healthier alternative.
- Sliced Chives (1/4 cup) – Provides a fresh onion flavor; green onions can work well in a pinch.
- Garlic Powder (3/4 tsp) – Delivers background flavor; fresh minced garlic offers a vibrant alternative.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp) – Introduces a mild heat; feel free to omit for a milder casserole.
- Cooked Shredded Chicken (4 cups) – The protein base that makes this dish hearty; substitute with leftover turkey if desired.
- Frozen Peas (1 cup, thawed) – Adds both color and nutrition; you can use other frozen vegetables for a twist.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Season to taste for an extra flavor boost.
- Shredded Cheddar (1/2 cup) – This melty topping enhances the filling and provides a delicious crust; try pepper jack or mozzarella for variation.
For the Topping
- Ritz Crackers (31, crushed, about 1 1/3 cups) – The key to that perfect crispy topping; any buttery cracker can substitute if needed.
- Unsalted Butter (3 Tbsp, melted) – Works to bind the cracker topping together; margarine is a suitable alternative.
For the Garnish
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional) – Adds a fresh touch and a pop of color to the finished dish.
Get your ingredients ready, and let the magic begin with this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole that promises to deliver warmth and comfort in every bite!
How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray. This ensures your delicious casserole won’t stick!
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Whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, chives, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and freshly ground black pepper in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This creamy base is absolutely scrumptious!
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Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and thawed peas until everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture. The vibrant green peas add a lovely touch of color and nutrition to your dish.
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Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top it with shredded cheddar cheese. Next, sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter over the top, ensuring even coverage for that sought-after crunch.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and the anticipation will be easy to feel!
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
Cozy evenings deserve an equally comforting spread that complements this cheesy, crunchy delight.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect to soak up every last drop of that creamy filling, making each bite more satisfying.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide a lovely textural balance while adding extra nutrition and vibrant colors to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a pop of greenery, complementing the comforting flavors with a hint of freshness and nutrients.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the casserole, enhancing the meal with crunchy textures and vibrant flavors.
- Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful ending, echoing the comforting vibes of the main dish.
These sides create a delightful meal to make your family say “Wow!” as you all gather around the table.
Expert Tips for Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
- Chicken Shredding: Make sure to shred the chicken finely to prevent clumping in the casserole, ensuring every bite is perfectly creamy.
- Chive Cutting: Use kitchen scissors to cut chives easily; this saves time and gives you beautiful, even pieces for that fresh flavor boost.
- Bake and Broil: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for a minute or two after baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to add cooked broccoli or other veggies; just make sure not to overfill the casserole dish to maintain the creamy texture.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to keep the Ritz cracker topping crisp and satisfying.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Variations
Get ready to elevate your casserole experience with these delicious twists!
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Turkey Swap: Substitute cooked turkey for chicken for a satisfying post-holiday meal. It’s a great way to use up leftover holiday favorites!
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Veggie Booster: Add cooked broccoli or other mixed vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for an extra nutritious punch. This not only adds color but also boosts the fiber content of your meal.
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Cheesy Remix: Experiment with a variety of cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for ultimate stretchiness. Each cheese will lend its unique texture and flavor to the dish.
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Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cracker alternatives or crushed cornflakes to keep the crispy topping while catering to gluten sensitivities. This way, everyone can enjoy this comfort dish!
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Herb Infusion: Toss in some freshly chopped thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor boost. This adds a lovely depth and fragrant quality to your casserole.
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Zesty Kick: For a little heat, toss in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the filling. It transforms the comforting casserole into a flavorful feast that packs a punch!
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Crispy Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds delightful crunch and savory flavor. Scatter some cooked bacon bits on top before serving for an irresistible gourmet touch.
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Non-Dairy Delight: Create a dairy-free version using coconut cream and non-dairy cheese alternatives. This way, your casserole can be enjoyed by those with dietary restrictions without losing any creaminess!
How to Store and Freeze Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
- Fridge: Leftover Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This maintains the flavors and ensures it’s ready for cozy leftovers!
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: To preserve the crispy topping, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crackers soggy.
- Assembly Tip: If you plan to freeze it, consider preparing the casserole without baking. Just cover it well and store it—then bake when ready for a freshly made meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole preparations are perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal ready to go! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. To prepare ahead, mix all the ingredients in the baking dish as directed, then sprinkle the Ritz cracker topping just before baking to maintain that delightful crunch. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and slide it in for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. This method not only saves you time but also ensures that every bite remains just as delicious!
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for this casserole?
I recommend using cooked shredded chicken, as it integrates beautifully into the creamy mix. If you have leftover turkey from a holiday meal, that works perfectly too! Just ensure it’s fully cooked and shredded to avoid clumping in the casserole.
How should I store leftover Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and flavorful! To reheat, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain that lovely crisp topping.
Can I freeze Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. For best results, prepare the casserole without baking, cover it well, and then freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed for a delicious homemade meal.
What if my casserole topping doesn’t get crispy?
If you find your topping is less crispy than you would like, you can easily fix this! After baking, broil the casserole on high for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a watchful eye to prevent burning—just until the topping turns a lovely golden brown!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This casserole contains dairy (sour cream, cottage cheese, and cheddar), which may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant individuals. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and try a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version. Additionally, if you’re serving this dish to pets, make sure to avoid any ingredients like onions (found in chives) that may be harmful to them.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add cooked broccoli, bell peppers, or even carrots for additional nutrition and flavor. Just make sure not to overfill your dish to keep that creamy texture intact!
Ultimate Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray.
- Whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, chives, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and freshly ground black pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Stir in the cooked shredded chicken and thawed peas until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese, then sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter.
- Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbling and golden brown.
- Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.