ritz chicken casserole recipe
The Best ritz chicken casserole recipe
My kids love it because it’s got that familiar, nostalgic taste, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or leftovers in general—just toss in what you have and let it warm up into something delicious. Plus, it’s not too heavy, so it’s a balanced meal that doesn’t leave you feeling sluggish afterward. The crackers add a nice crunch, and the sauce is rich but not overly greasy, making it a satisfying dish for everyday eating or for special occasions. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a little extra effort, but it’s worth it because it’s always a winner.
Classic Ritz Chicken Casserole
A comforting, one-bowl dish featuring tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and crispy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1½ cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 package (10 oz) Ritz crackers, crushed
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. Season chicken with thyme and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. -
2
In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir in milk until smooth. Gradually add tomato sauce and minced garlic, mixing until fully combined. -
3
Place chicken in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour sauce over chicken, spreading evenly. Top with half the crushed Ritz crackers and half the shredded cheese. -
4
Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. Sprinkle remaining crackers and cheese over the top. Return to oven and bake 10–12 minutes until crackers are crispy and cheese is melted. -
5
Let cool 5 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Ritz Chicken Casserole Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ritz Chicken Casserole
1. What is the best way to reheat Ritz Chicken Casserole to keep it crispy?
Reheating Ritz Chicken Casserole properly ensures the top layer stays crispy while the inside stays warm. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil. Bake for 15–20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake another 5–10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
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2. Can I substitute the Ritz crackers for another type of cracker or bread?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe with other crackers or bread as long as they hold up well to baking. Crispy crackers like Waterford or even whole-grain crackers work well. For a bread-based version, use a sturdy crusty bread like sourdough or a baguette, cut into thick slices, and toast them before assembling. Avoid delicate breads that may turn soggy.
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3. How long does Ritz Chicken Casserole stay fresh in the fridge?
This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for 4–5 days when stored in an airtight container. To maintain texture, reheat it within 2 hours of serving to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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4. Why does my Ritz Chicken Casserole turn out too dense or dry?
A few common reasons for a dense or dry casserole include overmixing the topping, not using enough liquid in the sauce, or baking too long. To fix this:
– Reduce the sauce slightly if it’s too thick, or add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it.
– Mix the topping just until combined—overmixing can compact the layers.
– Check the oven temperature—if it’s too hot, the outside may dry out before the inside cooks fully. Use an oven thermometer if needed.
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5. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep, and how do I make it ahead?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. To prep ahead:
– Assemble the casserole (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
– Bake as directed, but add 5–10 extra minutes if the layers have thickened in the fridge.
– For extra convenience, bake it at a slightly lower temperature (325°F/165°C) for 15–20 minutes to prevent over-browning.
