"Ultimate Comfort Food: Easy Chicken Casserole Recipe with Ritz Crackers for Family Dinners"
**Description:**If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will please the whole family, look no further than this chicken casserole recip……
**Description:**
If you're looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will please the whole family, look no further than this chicken casserole recipe with Ritz crackers. This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, creamy soup, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping that creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
#### Ingredients:
To make the chicken casserole recipe with Ritz crackers, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups Ritz crackers, crushed
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Chicken Mixture**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
3. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. **Prepare the Topping**: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. If you’re using cheddar cheese, mix it in as well. This will create a rich, buttery topping that adds a delightful crunch to the casserole.
5. **Assemble the Casserole**: Evenly sprinkle the Ritz cracker mixture over the top of the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
6. **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is golden brown.
7. **Serve**: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread.
### Why This Recipe Works:
The chicken casserole recipe with Ritz crackers is not only easy to prepare, but it also incorporates ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The creamy filling is rich and satisfying, while the Ritz cracker topping adds a delightful crunch that elevates the dish. It’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices.
### Tips for Success:
- **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- **Variations**: Feel free to experiment with different proteins, such as turkey or ham, or swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- **Leftovers**: This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
In conclusion, this chicken casserole recipe with Ritz crackers is a fantastic choice for busy families looking for a hearty meal. It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to bring smiles to the dinner table. Enjoy this ultimate comfort food that not only tastes amazing but is also a breeze to prepare!