Quick Benefits
- Simple Prep: This casserole comes together quickly with just a few pantry staples.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy, crunchy, and comforting—perfect for picky eaters and hearty appetites.
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A fantastic dish for potlucks, gatherings, or weeknight dinners.
Essential Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Preparation Steps
- Preheat & Prep: Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Season & Layer Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper, then place in the baking dish.
- Mix Cracker Topping: In a bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers, Parmesan, and melted butter.
- Creamy Layer: Spread sour cream over the chicken.
- Sauce Blend: In a separate bowl, whisk cream of chicken soup with chicken broth. Pour over the sour cream layer.
- Top & Bake: Sprinkle cracker mixture evenly on top. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the top is golden.
- Garnish & Rest: Let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Health Benefits
- Protein-rich: Lean chicken breast provides a healthy dose of protein.
- Calcium & flavor: Parmesan cheese adds calcium and depth of flavor.
- Comforting without excess: The use of sour cream and cream of chicken soup adds creaminess without the need for heavy cream.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with:
- Steamed green beans
- Roasted carrots or broccoli
- Buttery mashed potatoes
- Fluffy white rice or warm dinner rolls
- Ideal for casual weeknight dinners or relaxed Sunday meals.
Creative Variations
- Veggie Boost: Add frozen peas, spinach, or broccoli under the soup layer.
- Spicy Kick: Mix a bit of hot sauce into the sour cream or soup mixture.
- Cheese Lovers: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top before adding the cracker topping.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
- Not recommended for freezing unless using pre-cooked chicken (texture may change).
Pro Tips
- Use thin-cut chicken breasts or pound thicker ones to ensure even cooking.
- For extra crunch, add a few whole Ritz crackers crumbled on top just before serving.
- Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes after baking—it helps the sauce thicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great and add a bit more flavor.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely—assemble the casserole (minus the cracker topping), refrigerate, then add topping and bake when ready.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter, protein-packed swap.
Q: What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
A: Crushed saltines, buttery crackers, or panko breadcrumbs are good substitutes.
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish made with tender chicken breasts layered in a rich sauce of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, then topped with a buttery, golden Ritz cracker and Parmesan crust. It’s a classic family favorite that’s simple to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The crunch from the cracker topping pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken and savory sauce, making every bite satisfying and delicious.
- Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sour cream
1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper, then place them in your prepared baking dish.
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix well so that the crackers are evenly coated.
Spread the sour cream generously over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this heavenly mixture over the chicken and sour cream layer.
Finally, scatter the Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole, creating a delicious crust.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. For a pop of color, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like.
Serve hot, and enjoy this comforting Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole alongside your favorite sides!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Casserole
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 480–520 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)
