Name: Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-481632H46M35S
Total time: PT-481632H46M35S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sour cream; 1 can cream of chicken soup; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Are you tired of the same old chicken dinners? Elevate your mealtime with this delightful Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole recipe that combines tender chicken breasts, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup sour cream

1 can cream of chicken soup

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy cleanup.
Season and Arrange: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then place them in the prepared baking dish for the base of your casserole.

Prepare the Cracker Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix well until the crackers are evenly coated.
Add Layers: Spread sour cream evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish, followed by a smooth mixture of cream of chicken soup and chicken broth poured over the top.
Top it Off: Sprinkle the Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the casserole to create a deliciously crispy topping.

Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve this comforting Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole hot alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Serving Tips:

Pair with Sides: Serve the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with your favorite side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad are excellent options that complement the flavors of the casserole.
Garnish Creatively: Before serving, garnish the casserole with additional chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
Serve Hot: This casserole is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven. Allow it to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the flavors meld together, then serve promptly for the best taste and texture.

Family Style: Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish at the dinner table for a cozy and inviting family-style dining experience. Let everyone help themselves to generous servings of this comforting dish.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat the leftover casserole, you can either use a microwave or reheat it in the oven. If using the microwave, place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high in 30-second intervals until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Revitalize the Crispiness: If the Ritz cracker topping has lost its crispiness after refrigeration, you can restore it by briefly broiling the casserole in the oven. Place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy again.
Freezing: While this casserole can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it before baking to maintain the texture of the cracker topping. Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the original instructions.

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FAQs:

Can I use other types of crackers for the topping instead of Ritz crackers?

Certainly! While Ritz crackers provide a deliciously buttery and crispy topping, you can experiment with other types of crackers to suit your taste preferences. Consider using buttery round crackers, saltine crackers, or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture and flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the amount of melted butter accordingly to ensure the topping adheres properly to the chicken.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components of the casserole ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. You can season the chicken breasts, prepare the cracker topping, and even mix the sauce ingredients in advance. Store each component separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the casserole. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer the ingredients in the baking dish according to the recipe instructions and bake as directed.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream in this recipe if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. Greek yogurt will provide a similar tanginess and creaminess to the dish. Just keep in mind that Greek yogurt tends to be thicker than sour cream, so you may need to adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to achieve the desired texture.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole gluten-free, you’ll need to substitute the Ritz crackers and cream of chicken soup with gluten-free alternatives. Look for gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs to use as the topping, and opt for a gluten-free cream of chicken soup available in many grocery stores. Additionally, be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as the chicken broth and seasonings, are also gluten-free. With these simple substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of this comforting casserole.

Conclusion:

With its simple preparation and irresistible flavors, this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole recipe is a must-try for any home cook. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

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