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Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This creamy, comforting chicken casserole is a Southern classic. Packed with tender shredded chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and topped with buttery Ritz crackers, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.


Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)

  • 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1/4 cup milk

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed

  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted

  • Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas or cooked broccoli


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well mixed.

  3. If adding veggies like peas or broccoli, stir them in now.

  4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.

  5. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until well coated.

  6. Sprinkle the buttery cracker crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.

  7. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.

  8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

  9. Let cool slightly before serving.


Notes

  • You can use canned chicken, leftover chicken, or rotisserie chicken for convenience.

  • Add cooked rice or pasta to make it even heartier.

  • Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you prefer a milder flavor.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg