Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a comforting Southern dish that combines tender chicken in a creamy sauce, topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust. This hearty casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.​

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is accessible for cooks of all levels.​
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy filling and crispy topping make it a hit among both adults and children.​
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with various add-ins or substitutions to suit your taste preferences.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked, shredded chicken​
• Cream of chicken soup​theyummyjourney.com+3Pinterest+3Paula Deen+3
• Sour cream​theyummyjourney.com+1Pinterest+1
• Shredded cheddar cheese​theyummyjourney.com+1Paula Deen+1
• Ritz crackers​Log in or sign up to view+1Pinterest+1
• Butter​Paula Deen+2Pinterest+2Pinterest+2
• Salt and pepper​theyummyjourney.com+1Pinterest+1

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).​
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.​Paula Deen
3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.​
4. Add the Topping: Crush the Ritz crackers and mix them with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken filling.​
5. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.​
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.​
• Preparation Time: About 10 minutes.​
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes.​Pinterest+1theyummyjourney.com+1

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate cooked broccoli or mixed vegetables into the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.​
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy kick.​
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.​Paula Deen

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​theyummyjourney.com
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.​

FAQs

How can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking as directed.​

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.​

What can I use instead of Ritz crackers for the topping?

You can substitute Ritz crackers with crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or another type of butter cracker.​theyummyjourney.com

Is it possible to use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works well and adds extra flavor. Simply shred the meat and use it as directed.​theyummyjourney.com

Can I add pasta to this casserole?

Yes, adding cooked pasta like egg noodles can make the casserole more filling. Mix the cooked pasta into the chicken mixture before baking.​

How do I prevent the topping from becoming soggy?

Ensure the casserole is baked uncovered to allow the topping to crisp up. Also, avoid adding too much butter to the cracker mixture.​

Can I use low-fat ingredients?

Yes, you can use low-fat sour cream, cheese, and soup to reduce the calorie content without significantly affecting the taste.​

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.​

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute the Ritz crackers with a gluten-free cracker or breadcrumb alternative.​Pinterest+1Pinterest+1

Can I add mushrooms to this casserole?

Yes, adding sautéed mushrooms can enhance the flavor and add texture. Mix them into the chicken filling before assembling the casserole.​

Conclusion

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a delightful, comforting dish that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat. Its creamy filling and crunchy topping make it a favorite for family meals and gatherings. With various ways to customize and adapt the recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.​

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