There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting Ritz cracker chicken casserole to bring the whole family to the table. With its creamy chicken filling, buttery Ritz cracker topping, and simple pantry ingredients, this classic casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to share at your next potluck, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to make the best Ritz cracker chicken casserole—step by step—so you can enjoy this cozy favorite any night of the week.
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for ritz cracker chicken casserole
Main Ingredients
To make the best Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole, you’ll need just a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that creamy, comforting flavor and signature crunchy topping:
Shredded Chicken
The base of this casserole is made with tender, cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or boil and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs. For a richer flavor, dark meat works just as well. Aim for about 3 cups of shredded chicken, enough to create a hearty, satisfying filling.
Cream of Chicken Soup
This is what makes the casserole irresistibly creamy. One or two cans of cream of chicken soup create a rich, savory sauce that binds everything together. You can substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for added depth or variety.
Sour Cream
Sour cream adds tanginess and velvety texture to balance the saltiness of the crackers and richness of the chicken. Use full-fat sour cream for the creamiest results, though light versions also work if you want to cut back on calories.
Cheddar Cheese (Optional but Recommended)
A handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese takes this casserole to the next level. It melts beautifully into the sauce, making the filling extra gooey and flavorful. You can also try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for variation.
Ritz Crackers
Of course, the star of the show is the Ritz cracker topping. About 1 to 1½ sleeves of crushed Ritz crackers create a golden, buttery crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling. Make sure to mix them with melted butter for that iconic flavor and crispness.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor
While the classic Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is delicious on its own, adding a few extra ingredients can take the flavor, texture, and nutrition to the next level. These optional mix-ins are great for customizing your casserole to fit your family’s tastes or what you have in the fridge:
Vegetables for Texture and Nutrition
Add some color, crunch, and vitamins to your casserole by mixing in vegetables like:
- Frozen peas or green beans – no need to thaw, just stir them into the filling
- Chopped broccoli – lightly steam or microwave first for a tender bite
- Diced onions or bell peppers – sauté them for extra depth and sweetness
- Shredded carrots or zucchini – a sneaky way to add veggies for picky eaters
Protein Boosters and Flavor Enhancers
For a more indulgent or filling version, consider tossing in:
- Cooked, crumbled bacon – adds smoky, salty flavor
- Diced ham or turkey – a great use for leftovers
- Chopped cooked mushrooms – adds umami and richness
- Sautéed garlic or shallots – perfect for garlic lovers
Seasonings and Swaps
A few simple spices and swaps can completely change the flavor profile:
- Paprika or smoked paprika – adds color and warmth
- Italian seasoning or thyme – for a herbaceous twist
- Crushed red pepper flakes – for a subtle kick
- Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom or celery soup – adds variety in taste
These mix-ins are completely optional, but they’re perfect if you want to:
- Stretch the recipe to feed more people
- Use up leftovers
- Add a personal spin to the dish
Tools for Easy Prep
Making Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is simple, especially when you have the right tools on hand. You won’t need anything fancy—just a few basic kitchen essentials to keep the prep fast, easy, and mess-free.
Mixing Bowls
You’ll need at least one large mixing bowl to combine the chicken, soup, sour cream, cheese, and seasonings. If you’re adding extra veggies or mix-ins, a medium bowl can also come in handy for prepping those ingredients.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Use a sturdy silicone spatula or wooden spoon to stir the casserole mixture. A spatula is great for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl, ensuring no creamy goodness goes to waste.
Casserole Dish or Baking Pan
A 9×13-inch baking dish is the perfect size for this recipe. It allows the filling to spread evenly and gives plenty of surface area for the golden Ritz cracker topping. Use a glass or ceramic casserole dish for even baking.
Cutting Board and Knife (Optional)
If you’re chopping fresh vegetables or shredding cooked chicken yourself, a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board are essential. These tools will make prep quicker and more precise.
Oven and Oven Mitts
This casserole bakes best at 350°F (175°C). Preheat your oven while assembling the dish so it’s ready to go. Always use oven mitts when handling hot cookware to keep things safe.
Small Bowl for Butter and Ritz Topping
You’ll need a small microwave-safe bowl to melt butter and mix it with crushed Ritz crackers for that signature buttery topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Prepare the Chicken Mixture
The heart of any great Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole lies in its creamy, flavorful filling. This step is all about combining your ingredients to create a rich and satisfying base that bakes perfectly beneath the buttery cracker topping.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Start with Cooked, Shredded Chicken
Use about 3 cups of cooked and shredded chicken—either from a rotisserie chicken, leftover baked chicken, or boiled chicken breasts. Shred it into bite-sized pieces for even distribution. Make sure the chicken is fully cooled so it blends smoothly with the creamy ingredients. - Mix in the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine:- 1–2 cans of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup of sour cream
- (Optional) ½ to 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist
Stir until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. This creamy blend is what gives the casserole its rich, comforting texture.
- Add Seasonings and Optional Ingredients
To boost flavor, stir in:- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
At this stage, you can also fold in your favorite add-ins like steamed broccoli, cooked mushrooms, or peas for added texture and nutrition.
Make-Ahead Tip:
You can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. This makes dinner prep even faster—just add the topping and bake when ready!
Add the Buttery Ritz Cracker Topping
No Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is complete without its signature buttery cracker topping. This crispy golden layer contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken mixture underneath, adding irresistible crunch and savory flavor to every bite.
How to Make the Topping
- Crush the Ritz Crackers
Start by crushing 1 to 1½ sleeves of Ritz crackers—about 30 to 45 crackers. You can do this easily by placing them in a zip-top bag and lightly rolling over them with a rolling pin or using your hands. Don’t crush them too fine—small chunks give the topping great texture. - Melt the Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 4 to 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. For even more flavor, consider using salted butter if you enjoy a bit more richness. Let it cool slightly before combining with the crackers to avoid sogginess. - Combine and Mix
Pour the melted butter over the crushed crackers and stir until all the crumbs are evenly coated. This buttery coating helps the topping brown beautifully in the oven and gives it that signature crispiness.
Add It to the Casserole
Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken filling, covering the entire surface from edge to edge. A thick, even layer ensures every bite has that irresistible crunch.
Optional Add-In: Mix in a couple of tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese or dried herbs (like parsley or thyme) to the cracker mixture for an extra boost of flavor.
Pro Tip:
If you love a super crispy topping, consider baking the casserole uncovered. For a softer finish, you can loosely tent it with foil for the first half of the baking time, then remove it to let the topping crisp up.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Now that your casserole is fully assembled with its creamy chicken base and buttery Ritz cracker topping, it’s time to bake it to golden perfection. This final step transforms your dish into a bubbling, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing comfort food classic.
Oven Temperature and Bake Time
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you haven’t already.
- Place the casserole dish uncovered on the middle rack of the oven.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the Ritz cracker topping is golden brown and crisp.
If you’re using a deeper dish or added lots of mix-ins (like veggies or extra cheese), you may need an additional 5–10 minutes. Keep an eye on the top so it doesn’t overbrown.
Visual Cues for Doneness
Your casserole is ready when:
- The edges are bubbling with creamy filling
- The cracker topping is golden and lightly toasted
- The internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) if reheating cold ingredients
Use a digital thermometer if you’re unsure—it’s especially helpful when baking from refrigerated.
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tip
- Make-ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate, then bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well before baking. Wrap tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When baking from frozen, add 15–20 minutes to the total bake time, covering with foil for the first half to prevent overbrowning.
Let It Rest Before Serving
After removing from the oven, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps the creamy mixture settle and makes serving much easier—no soupy mess!

Tips, Variations & FAQs
Recipe Tips for Success
Making a creamy, flavorful, and perfectly crisp Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is simple—but a few smart tips can elevate your results from good to unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to casseroles, these tips will help you bake with confidence and enjoy a dish your whole family will love.
1. Use Cooked Chicken for Convenience
This recipe calls for fully cooked, shredded or cubed chicken. To save time, use:
- Leftover rotisserie chicken
- Pre-cooked grilled chicken strips
- Meal-prep shredded chicken from earlier in the week
Avoid raw chicken, as it won’t cook fully in the short baking time and could make the casserole watery.
2. Don’t Over-Crush the Crackers
While it’s tempting to pulverize the crackers, aim for a mix of small chunks and crumbs. This creates the best texture—crispy on top, slightly buttery in the middle, and never soggy. If you crush too finely, the topping can become too dense and greasy when mixed with butter.
3. Balance the Creaminess
Using both cream of chicken soup and sour cream or mayonnaise creates the rich, velvety texture everyone loves. If you prefer a lighter version:
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream
- Use a low-sodium soup to control salt levels
- Add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the mixture is too thick
4. Bake Until the Top is Golden
The cracker topping should be crispy and golden, not just warm. Don’t rush this step—25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) is usually ideal. You can even broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end for an ultra-crunchy finish. Just watch it closely to prevent burning.
5. Rest Before Serving
Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes after baking. This allows the creamy filling to thicken and set, making it easier to serve and more enjoyable to eat.
6. Make It Your Own
This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to:
- Add cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach
- Mix in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- Spice it up with a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika
Personal touches like these help turn a great casserole into a signature family favorite.
Easy Variations to Try
One of the best things about this Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re trying to use up ingredients from your fridge, adjust for dietary needs, or just want to mix up the flavor profile, here are some delicious variations to keep things fresh and fun.
1. Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Love cheese? Turn up the comfort by mixing in 1–2 cups of shredded cheese into the chicken mixture before baking. Great options include:
- Sharp cheddar for a bold, tangy flavor
- Mozzarella for creamy meltiness
- Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a balanced, gooey texture
Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan for an extra-savory golden crust.
2. Chicken & Veggie Casserole
Add some nutrition and texture with your favorite veggies. Stir them into the filling before baking. Great choices include:
- Steamed broccoli or cauliflower florets
- Green peas, corn, or diced carrots (frozen is fine!)
- Spinach, lightly sautéed or thawed from frozen
This variation is perfect for picky eaters or anyone trying to sneak in more greens.
3. Buffalo-Style Chicken Casserole
Spice things up with a little heat! For a Buffalo chicken twist, mix:
- ¼ cup Buffalo wing sauce into the creamy base
- A sprinkle of ranch seasoning or blue cheese crumbles for that signature flavor
- Serve with a side of celery sticks or drizzle with ranch dressing before serving
This version is a game-day hit and perfect for spice lovers.
4. Chicken and Rice Casserole
Looking for a more filling variation? Add 1–2 cups of cooked white or brown rice to the chicken mixture before baking. This stretches the casserole and makes it more satisfying—ideal for feeding a crowd or batch cooking.
5. Mushroom Chicken Casserole
For a deeper, earthy flavor, add:
- Sliced sautéed mushrooms
- A can of cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken
- A pinch of thyme or garlic powder for extra aroma
This gives the dish a cozy, almost gourmet twist without the extra work.
6. Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Combine three crowd favorites: chicken, bacon, and ranch. Add:
- Crumbled cooked bacon
- Ranch seasoning mix or a splash of ranch dressing
- Optional: shredded cheese and a few chopped green onions on top
This version is indulgent, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re making Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole for the first time or just looking for tips to perfect it, here are answers to the most frequently asked questions from home cooks just like you.
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
No, this recipe is designed for pre-cooked chicken. Raw chicken won’t cook thoroughly in the casserole’s baking time and may result in an unsafe or watery dish. For convenience, use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or cook and shred chicken breasts in advance.
What kind of cream soup works best?
The classic choice is cream of chicken soup, but you can also use:
- Cream of mushroom for an earthier flavor
- Cream of celery for a lighter, herbaceous profile
- Cream of cheddar if you want to enhance the cheesy flavor
Low-sodium or reduced-fat versions work great too, depending on your dietary needs.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a perfect make-ahead meal. Simply assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes, then bake as directed.
You can also freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat:
- Use the oven at 325°F until warmed through for the crispiest topping
- Or microwave in 30-second bursts for convenience (though topping may soften)
Can I use different crackers or breadcrumbs?
Absolutely. While Ritz crackers provide a buttery, slightly sweet crunch that’s iconic to this dish, you can substitute with:
- Butter crackers (generic Ritz-style)
- Crushed potato chips for a saltier crunch
- Panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a lighter topping
- Crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option
Each brings its own twist, so feel free to experiment!
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free cream soup, gluten-free crackers, and verify that your chicken stock or broth is certified gluten-free. Many grocery stores now offer GF alternatives that work seamlessly in this recipe.
