Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole – A Comfort Classic with a Buttery Crunch
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about a creamy chicken casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings back memories of family dinners, potlucks, and Sunday suppers around a warm table. And if you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food with a buttery, crunchy twist, this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is your answer.
It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying—with just a handful of simple ingredients and a golden Ritz cracker topping that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping an easy weeknight meal, this casserole hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it easy, pantry-friendly, and budget-conscious—while still being packed with flavor.
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or leftovers work great!)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 30 crackers)
- ½ cup (1 stick) melted butter
- Optional:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra richness)
- Chopped parsley, for a fresh, colorful garnish
Tip: You can also add a dash of onion powder or a sprinkle of paprika for extra depth of flavor.
How to Make Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan and set it aside.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended and creamy.
Shortcut alert: Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves tons of time and adds extra flavor.
Step 3: Layer It Up
Spoon the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the top now for a cheesy, melty middle layer.
Step 4: Make the Buttery Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until all crumbs are evenly coated.
Sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole. It will bake into a perfectly crispy, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake & Serve
Bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly around the edges.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to set up a bit. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color (optional, but lovely).
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
- Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
- Total Time: ~40–45 minutes
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy casserole with:
- Steamed green beans
- A crisp garden salad
- Roasted broccoli or carrots
- Dinner rolls or crescent rolls for extra comfort
This dish is hearty on its own but plays beautifully with light, fresh sides for a balanced meal.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- To make ahead: Assemble the casserole (minus the cracker topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Add the cracker topping right before baking.
- Leftovers: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- To freeze: Assemble fully (excluding topping), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, top with crackers and butter, then bake as usual.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – approx. 6 servings)
- Calories: ~430
- Fat: 30g
- Carbs: 20g
- Protein: 22g
Nutrition may vary depending on brands and whether cheese is added.
Variations & Add-Ins
Want to make it your own? Try these simple swaps:
- Make it spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Add veggies: Stir in a cup of frozen peas and carrots, corn, or sautéed mushrooms.
- Swap proteins: Try it with cooked turkey, ham, or even tuna.
- Use Greek yogurt: Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt for a tangier and lighter version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-approved and kid-friendly
- Incredibly easy to make with minimal cleanup
- Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or freezer meals
- That crunchy topping is everything!
Final Thoughts
Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is the kind of easy, crowd-pleasing meal that will quickly become part of your regular dinner rotation. Creamy, cozy, crunchy, and endlessly customizable—what’s not to love?
So next time you’re staring down a busy weeknight, skip the takeout. Make this instead—you’ll thank yourself later.