Looking for a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner option? This Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Packed with savory chicken, creamy sauce, and a buttery cracker topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Read on to discover how to make this delectable dish and impress your loved ones with minimal effort!

What is Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole?
Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole is a delightful combination of tender shredded chicken, a creamy base made from cream soup and sour cream, and a crunchy topping of buttery Ritz crackers. This dish is baked to golden perfection, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. It's an ideal way to use up leftover chicken and create a comforting meal that's both satisfying and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients List for Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole
To make this delicious casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast meat
- 10.75 oz can of cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1 stick of butter, melted (½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (optional)
Substitutions and Variations
The Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole is versatile, and you can customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Chicken: Substitute with turkey or rotisserie chicken for a different flavor.
- Soup: Use cream of celery or cheddar cheese soup for a unique twist.
- Sour Cream: Replace with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier taste and a healthier option.
- Crackers: Try using buttery club crackers or saltine crackers for a variation in crunch.
- Add-ins: Incorporate vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
- Spices: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's walk through the step-by-step process of making this Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 2.5 to 3-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the 10.75 oz can of cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup with 1 cup of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Step 3: Add the Chicken
Fold in the 3 cups of cooked, shredded chicken breast meat into the creamy mixture. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
Crush the 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers and sprinkle them over the top of the chicken mixture. If you're using poppy seeds, sprinkle them evenly over the cracker crumbs.
Step 6: Add the Butter
Melt 1 stick of butter (½ cup) and drizzle it evenly over the cracker topping. This will help create a golden-brown crust.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly in the center.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure the best results:
- Overbaking: Be careful not to overbake the casserole, as this can dry out the chicken and make the topping too hard. Keep an eye on it after 25 minutes.
- Undercooking the Chicken: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Using raw or undercooked chicken can result in uneven cooking.
- Too Much Butter: While the butter adds a delicious richness to the topping, using too much can make the casserole greasy. Stick to the recommended amount.
- Not Crushing Crackers Properly: Make sure the crackers are crushed finely enough to create an even topping. Large pieces may not brown evenly.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole is perfectly baked, it's time to serve and enjoy! Here are some serving and presentation tips:
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole
- Portion Control: Use a large spoon or spatula to scoop out portions of the casserole. Aim for even servings to ensure everyone gets a fair share of the delicious topping.
- Pairings: Serve the casserole with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to add a fresh and healthy element to your meal. A simple side salad also pairs well.
- Temperature: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the creamy filling set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole
- Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top of the casserole for a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
- Serve in Individual Dishes: For a more elegant presentation, divide the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. Each person can enjoy their own personal serving.
- Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the table for a casual, family-style meal. Let everyone help themselves and enjoy the comfort of a shared dish.
Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole Recipe Tips
To ensure your Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Pre-Cook Chicken: Use leftover chicken or cook your chicken breast ahead of time. This saves time and ensures the chicken is properly cooked.
- Even Layers: Spread the chicken mixture and cracker topping evenly in the baking dish for consistent cooking and flavor distribution.
- Butter Drizzling: Drizzle the melted butter slowly and evenly over the crackers to ensure every bite has a rich, buttery taste.
- Check for Doneness: The casserole is ready when it's bubbly around the edges and the cracker topping is golden brown. If needed, you can broil for a minute or two to achieve a perfectly crispy top.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze the Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: What can I use as a gluten-free alternative to Ritz crackers?
A: There are several gluten-free cracker options available that can be used in place of Ritz crackers. Look for gluten-free butter crackers or rice crackers.
Q: How can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
A: You can mix in cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli into the chicken mixture before baking. This adds flavor, color, and nutrition to the dish.
Q: Can I use low-fat ingredients for a healthier version?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat cream soup, sour cream, and butter to reduce the overall fat content. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the taste and texture.
Conclusion
The Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its creamy filling and crunchy topping, it's sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a gathering, this casserole fits the bill. Try it out, customize it to your liking, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors that make this recipe a standout! Happy cooking!
PrintCreamy Chicken Ritz Casserole Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender shredded chicken, creamy soup, and a rich, buttery Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole combines simple ingredients for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast meat
- 10.75 oz can of cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1 stick of butter, melted (½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (optional)
Instructions
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast meat
- 10.75 oz can of cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1 stick of butter, melted (½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (optional)
Notes
- You can use either cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup depending on your preference.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Poppy seeds are optional but add a nice texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
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