Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole! This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, marrying tender shredded chicken with a creamy, savory sauce, all topped with a golden, buttery Ritz cracker crust that adds the perfect crunch. From the very first bite, you’ll understand why this casserole has become a regular star on dinner tables everywhere.

What makes this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole so irresistible is the harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The creaminess of the chicken filling pairs impeccably with the crispy, flavorful Ritz cracker topping, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Plus, with the option to customize the recipe by adding vegetables or swapping out cheeses, you can tailor this casserole to suit your preferences and make it your own. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot every time.

Quick Benefits

• Ready in just 45 minutes from prep to table
• Perfect for using leftover rotisserie chicken
• Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
• High in protein from the chicken

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes from prep to table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and spices that you likely already have on hand.
• Versatile: Easily customizable by adding vegetables, changing up the flavors, or using different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-ahead: Can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
• Comfort Food Classic: A creamy chicken filling topped with buttery Ritz crackers creates a texture sensation that is both comforting and satisfying.
• Crowd Pleaser: Guaranteed to be a hit with picky eaters and guests alike, making it a perfect dish to share at potlucks or family gatherings.
• Freezer Friendly: Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, allowing you to make a batch ahead of time for future meals.
• Memorable and Nostalgic: The aroma and taste of this casserole may evoke fond memories of family dinners, adding a special touch to your mealtime experience.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Bread Ingredients

• 3 cups bread flour
• 1 1/2 cups very warm tap water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cooking or kosher salt
• 2 1/2 cups freshly shredded Colby cheese (tightly packed)
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast (rapid rise)

Pro Tips for Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

For the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, to ensure a perfectly crispy topping, crush the Ritz crackers while still in their sleeve by gently rolling with a rolling pin. This method minimizes mess and provides uniform cracker pieces for an even golden crust. Additionally, letting the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking allows the sauce to thicken, making serving easier and more enjoyable.

When making the no-knead cheesy bread, opt for a variety of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella as substitutes for Colby to create a unique flavor profile. Harder cheeses work well for the crust topping, enhancing the overall texture and taste of the bread. If baking the dough without a Dutch oven, use a baking sheet or an ovenproof pot with a lid, covering it with foil in the initial baking phase to replicate the steam effect for a crispy exterior.

How to Make Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Combine flour, salt, and yeast in a large bowl using a rubber spatula. Add water and stir until a sticky dough forms, making sure there is no dry flour left.

Step 2: Step 02

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 2 to 3 hours until it doubles in size. Look for a bubbly surface and a slight jiggle when the bowl is shaken.

Step 3: Step 03

Preheat a heavy-based pot with a lid in the oven at 240°C (450°F) or 220°C for fan-forced ovens 30 minutes before the dough is ready.

Step 4: Step 04

1. Dust 1 tablespoon of flour on a work surface. Place the dough on the floured surface and shape into an 8-inch disc. Set aside 1/3 of the cheese for topping. Spread half of the remaining cheese on the dough. Fold the dough in four times, layering with the rest of the cheese, leaving the top cheese-free. Flip the dough onto parchment paper, seam side down, and shape it neatly.

Step 5: Step 05

Create a cheese crown by piling the reserved cheese on top of the dough.

Step 6: Step 06

Carefully transfer the dough into the preheated pot using parchment paper. Cover with the lid and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Step 07

Let the bread rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage Tips

Once the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is prepared and baked, it can be stored for later consumption. If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the crispy texture of the Ritz cracker topping, it’s best to store any remaining portions without mixing the topping into the chicken mixture. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through.

For longer storage, the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven until heated thoroughly. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the topping, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Properly storing the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole allows you to enjoy this comforting dish at your convenience without compromising its taste and quality. Whether you choose to refrigerate or freeze the casserole, taking these storage steps will help preserve its flavors and ensure a delightful meal every time you reheat it.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, if you don’t have Colby cheese on hand, you can easily swap it out for other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella. These cheeses will still provide a deliciously melted and golden topping for the casserole, each bringing their unique flavors to the dish. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your preference or what you have available in your fridge.

If you don’t have the specific pot or Dutch oven mentioned in the bread recipe, you can bake the dough on a regular baking sheet instead. Simply cover the dough with foil for the first part of baking to replicate the steam effect typically achieved with a covered pot. This alternative method can still yield a beautifully golden and crusty bread. Additionally, if you’re looking to create a warm environment for the dough to rise, you can place it in a slightly warmed oven (turned off) or in another draft-free spot in your kitchen. This will help facilitate the rising process, especially in cooler environments.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion with the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, try adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. This will not only add a pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous flavor that complements the richness of the dish.

To elevate the cheesy bread made with the no-knead method, serve it warm with a side of garlic herb butter for dipping. Simply mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped herbs like parsley or thyme, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright and flavorful accompaniment that will take the bread to the next level.

FAQs for Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole Recipe

Can I use a different cheese instead of Colby in the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole?

Yes, you can substitute Colby with cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or mozzarella for a unique flavor. Harder cheeses often yield a better crust topping.

Can I bake the bread dough on a baking sheet instead of in a pot?

You can bake the dough on a baking sheet or in an ovenproof pot with a lid. Cover it with foil for the first part of baking to mimic the steam effect of a Dutch oven.

How can I ensure my bread dough rises properly in a cool kitchen?

Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area. If your kitchen is cool, you can leave the dough in a slightly warmed (and turned off) oven for better rising.

Can I freeze the bread dough or the baked bread?

You can freeze the dough after its initial rise. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Baked bread can also be frozen and reheated in the oven.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a true winner for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you crave some comforting goodness. The golden buttery topping paired with the creamy chicken filling is a delightful contrast that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, its versatility allows for endless variations to suit your preferences, making it a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a foolproof dish that promises to satisfy and bring smiles to the table. So, gather your loved ones, savor every bite, and create new memories around this delicious and heartwarming meal.