Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole always wins the comfort food contest in my house. It is the kind of meal that wraps you in a buttery hug, all thanks to a crispy cracker topping and rich, creamy layers underneath. Whether you are craving something cozy for weeknights or planning to please picky eaters, this casserole delivers every single time.

This casserole quickly became a favorite in my kitchen after I brought it to a neighbor’s potluck. Now everyone asks for the recipe whenever casseroles are mentioned.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken breasts: Fresh will taste best Choose thicker pieces for juicy results
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning Keep your pantry stocked with high quality sea salt and cracked pepper
• Ritz crackers: The signature topping Classic original flavor works best for maximum buttery crunch
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty savory depth Freshly grated is best but pre grated will do in a pinch
• Unsalted butter: Holds the topping together and boosts flavor Look for butter labeled as sweet cream for best results
• Sour cream: Creamy tang that balances all the richness Full fat is best here for texture
• Cream of chicken soup: The key to a luscious sauce Use a high quality canned version or homemade if you have time
• Chicken broth: Adds moisture and boosts chicken flavor Opt for low sodium so you control saltiness
• Fresh parsley: Optional but brightens up the whole dish Flat leaf parsley gives the prettiest garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Baking Dish:

Set your oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish thoroughly so there is no sticking

Season the Chicken:

Generously sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of the chicken breasts then arrange them evenly in the prepared dish

Create the Ritz Cracker Topping:

In a mixing bowl stir together your crushed Ritz crackers grated Parmesan and melted butter until evenly moistened and combined

Layer on the Sour Cream:

Use a spatula to gently spread sour cream over the tops of each chicken breast making sure every piece is blanketed for ultimate moisture

Mix and Pour the Cream Sauce:

Whisk cream of chicken soup with chicken broth until smooth then pour this mixture evenly over the chicken and sour cream layers

Add the Crunchy Topping:

Use your hands to sprinkle the Ritz cracker mixture over everything Press very lightly to help the crumbs stick but do not compress too much or you will lose that fluffy texture after baking

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for thirty five to forty minutes Watch for a deeply golden cracker crust and check that chicken reads one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part

Rest and Serve:

Let your casserole sit for five to ten minutes after removing from the oven This helps juices settle for neater servings Garnish with chopped parsley if desired then serve piping hot

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Chicken is hands down my favorite part here because it soaks up the cream sauce and bakes up fork tender every time My kids now call this Casserole Night and love helping with the cracker topping The memory of those little hands giggling as crumbs shower the dish is something I treasure

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results store in the baking dish so you can warm it gently in the oven Crisp up the topping under the broiler for a minute or two if reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are short on Ritz crackers try buttery club crackers with a similar effect For a dairy free option swap in non dairy sour cream and cream soup Rotisserie chicken can be sliced and laid in if you prefer a shortcut

Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines next to something bright like green beans or a crisp Caesar salad It also goes well with buttery mashed potatoes or egg noodles I like to offer a bowl of extra chopped parsley or herbs for folks to sprinkle at the table

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This dish will surely become your go-to crowd pleaser with its rich, creamy layers and irresistible crunch. Enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended, but thighs can also be used for added juiciness.

→ Can I substitute Ritz crackers?

Club crackers or buttery round crackers can work as alternatives for a similar texture and taste.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead?

Yes, assemble the dish early, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add the cracker topping just before baking for the best crunch.

→ How can I reheat leftovers?

Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through; this helps maintain the crispy topping.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Try serving with green beans, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a balanced meal.