This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a comforting, creamy baked dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a rich sour cream and soup mixture, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
A classic comfort food favorite—crispy, savory, and totally satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧈 Buttery Cracker Topping: The melted butter Ritz topping turns golden and crispy in the oven.
- 🥓 Creamy Base: A mix of sour cream and cream of chicken soup adds richness without being heavy.
- 🍴 Hands-Off Baking: Just layer and bake—no stirring or flipping required.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Uses pantry staples and just one pan for minimal cleanup.
- 🎉 Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Great for potlucks, meal prep, or Sunday dinner.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
Topping Ingredients:
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers , crushed (about 2 cups)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter , melted
For the Creamy Layer:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley , chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts lightly on both sides with salt and pepper .
Place them into the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 3: Make the Ritz Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, combine:
- Crushed Ritz crackers
- Parmesan cheese
- Melted butter
Mix until well combined—it should look like coarse sand.
Set aside while you build the layers.
Step 4: Add the Creamy Layer
In a separate bowl, stir together:
- Sour cream
- Cream of chicken soup
- Chicken broth
Pour this mixture over the chicken (don’t stir—it will spread as it bakes).
Step 5: Top with Crackers
Sprinkle the Ritz cracker topping evenly over the top , pressing lightly so it sticks.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes , or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) .
Step 7: Rest & Garnish
Let the casserole rest in the oven turned off or on the counter for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Serve hot with your favorite side—try mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed veggies.
Tips for Success:
- 🕒 Make Ahead Option: Assemble ahead and refrigerate overnight—add 10 minutes to baking time if starting cold.
- 🥣 Dairy-Free Swap: Use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives to keep it light.
- 🧑🍳 Double the Flavor: Sprinkle garlic powder or Italian seasoning on the chicken before baking.
- 🧂 Don’t Overcook: To keep the chicken moist, don’t cook past 165°F (74°C).
- 📦 Freezer-Friendly: Cool and freeze for up to 2 months—reheat in the oven for best texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of extra sour cream or gravy on the side.
- Pair with roasted broccoli or green beans for balance.
- Perfect for game day, church events, or cozy family dinners.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):
(With regular Ritz crackers and full-fat ingredients – approximate)
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~20g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~3g
This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole brings together everything you need for a comforting, creamy, and crunchy baked dish. With its tangy sour cream layer and golden buttery topping—it’s no wonder this recipe is a long-time favorite.
So go ahead and make this tonight… because every bite feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
