Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything except the Ritz topping up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator, then add the cracker mixture just before baking.

What's the best way to crush Ritz crackers?

Place crackers in a sealed plastic bag and gently roll with a rolling pin, or pulse briefly in a food processor. Aim for varied textures from fine crumbs to larger pieces.

Can I substitute the cream soup?

Yes! Try cream of chicken, celery, or even make a homemade white sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth for lower sodium content.

How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?

Always add the cracker topping as the final step before baking, and ensure your casserole isn't covered with foil during the initial baking time.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?

Frozen mixed vegetables, fresh broccoli, bell peppers, or green beans all work wonderfully. Avoid high-water vegetables like tomatoes or zucchini unless pre-cooked.

Chicken Casserole With Ritz Cracker topping : 5 Amazing Secrets Revealed

Description

Discover the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition with this Chicken Casserole featuring a buttery Ritz cracker topping. Quick, hearty, and surprisingly healthy—this dish transforms ordinary weeknights into extraordinary meals.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
1 packet onion soup mix
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
6 tablespoons butter, melted
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and onion soup mix until smooth.
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer chicken, then frozen vegetables, pour soup mixture on top, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter and garlic powder.
Spread cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes until topping is golden and edges bubble. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a protein boost. Assemble a day ahead minus topping for easy prep. Use fresh vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for a nutrient upgrade.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 425
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 95mg