Sometimes, a simple yet comforting meal is all we need to bring family and friends together, and this Creamy Chicken Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping does just that. It combines the richness of creamy soup and sour cream, the crunchiness of buttery Ritz crackers, and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of tender chicken, creating a dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a dish for a holiday gathering, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe is a true classic comfort food, perfect for those who appreciate a delicious, easy-to-prepare meal without too many complex ingredients or steps. It’s the kind of dish you can prepare in under an hour and serve with minimal effort, yet it tastes like you’ve spent all day in the kitchen. What makes this casserole particularly timeless is its versatility — it’s not only easy to make but also adaptable to suit your taste. You can customize it with different types of cheese, add vegetables, or make it with different proteins if you desire.
This creamy chicken casserole is ideal for busy families, those new to cooking, or anyone looking for a quick, hearty, and satisfying meal. In addition to its ease of preparation, it also stores well for leftovers, making it an even better option for meal prepping. The combination of crispy, buttery crackers with the creamy sauce is nothing short of comforting, creating a dish that you’ll want to make again and again.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
1 sleeve of buttery round crackers (such as Ritz), crushed
½ cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional, or more if desired)
1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (8 ounce) container sour cream
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Preparation Steps
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30-35 minutes
Total Time:
45-50 minutes
Servings:
4-6 servings
Calories per Serving:
Approximately 450-500 kcal (may vary depending on cheese and portion size)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole bakes evenly and crisps up nicely at the top.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Start with the boneless, skinless chicken breast halves. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking. Arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the dish in a single layer.
If you’d like, you can either leave the chicken breasts whole or cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces to speed up cooking and make it easier to serve.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and the sour cream. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy base for your casserole.
Add 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese to the mixture and stir it in, ensuring that it melts into the sauce as you mix. This will add flavor and a creamy texture to the dish.
Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, making sure to coat them evenly.
Step 4: Add the Ritz Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter and poppy seeds (if using). Stir until the crackers are well-coated with butter, making sure there are no dry spots.
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. This topping will become crispy and golden as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly. The cracker topping should be golden brown and crispy.
Check the chicken for doneness by cutting into a piece. It should be cooked through with no pink remaining in the center.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the casserole is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly.
Serve the casserole hot, ideally with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or some rice to make a complete meal.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
This Creamy Chicken Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping is a timeless dish because it brings together the best elements of comfort food. The combination of creamy chicken soup and sour cream creates a smooth and rich sauce that perfectly complements the mild flavor of the chicken breasts. The addition of shredded Cheddar cheese infuses the dish with a familiar and satisfying richness, while the buttery Ritz cracker topping provides a crispy contrast that makes every bite enjoyable.
What makes this casserole even more beloved is its simplicity and versatility. It can be whipped up in under an hour, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The ingredients are accessible, and you likely already have them on hand, which means there’s no need for a trip to the store when hunger strikes.
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