Try this easy Chicken on the Ritz recipe — creamy chicken casserole topped with buttery Ritz crackers. Step-by-step instructions, variations, storage & FAQs.
What is the Chicken on the Ritz Recipe & Why It’s Beloved
The Chicken on the Ritz recipe is a comforting casserole made with creamy chicken filling and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping.
It’s the perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and crispy, buttery texture. This dish is popular because it’s quick to assemble, budget-friendly, and a crowd-pleaser.
With simple staples like cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded chicken, you can whip it up in minutes.
Ingredients for the Chicken on the Ritz Recipe + Variation Options
Here’s a simple breakdown of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes / Variations |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded cooked chicken | 3 cups | Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Substitute with cream of mushroom or homemade white sauce |
| Sour cream | 1 cup | Swap with Greek yogurt for lighter version |
| Butter | ½ cup (melted) | Use unsalted for more control |
| Ritz crackers | 2 sleeves (about 60 crackers) | Crushed for topping |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp | Optional seasoning |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp | Optional seasoning |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust for preference |
| Optional veggies | 1–2 cups | Broccoli, peas, or carrots |
Variation ideas: Add cheese for richness, toss in vegetables for nutrition, or season with herbs and spices for depth.
How to Make the Chicken on the Ritz Recipe
- Prepare the chicken base – Combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
- Add seasonings and veggies – Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional vegetables.
- Transfer to baking dish – Spread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch dish.
- Make the Ritz cracker topping – Crush crackers and mix with melted butter.
- Layer the topping – Sprinkle buttery crumbs evenly over chicken mixture.
- Bake – Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Cool and serve – Let sit 5 minutes before serving.
This recipe is simple yet flavorful, with a creamy filling and crispy topping that makes it unforgettable.
Tips to Keep Your Chicken on the Ritz Recipe Crisp & Creamy
- Avoid soggy topping by crushing crackers right before baking.
- Mix crackers with butter for even crispiness.
- Don’t overbake or the chicken will dry out.
- Add cheese between layers for gooey richness.
- Blanch veggies first to prevent excess water.
Best Sides to Pair with Your Chicken on the Ritz Recipe
The Chicken on the Ritz recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that balance its creamy richness. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add freshness, while a crisp garden salad brings a light crunch.
If you prefer comfort on comfort, mashed potatoes are a perfect match. For something hearty yet simple, rice or quinoa soak up the flavorful sauce, and soft dinner rolls are ideal for scooping every last bite.
Storing & Freezing the Chicken on the Ritz Recipe
The Chicken on the Ritz recipe is perfect for making ahead and saving leftovers. To keep it fresh, refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for individual portions. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole without the Ritz topping for up to 2 months, then add the buttery cracker crumbs just before baking.
If you’re planning ahead, assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when needed, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Nutrition & Healthy Tweaks for this Chicken on the Ritz Recipe
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 750mg |
Healthy swaps:
- Use Greek yogurt for more protein.
- Pick low-sodium soup to cut salt.
- Add vegetables for fiber.
- Use whole-grain crackers for a healthier crust.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Chicken on the Ritz Recipe
- Can I use rotisserie chicken? – Yes, it’s quick and flavorful.
- What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup? – Try mushroom, celery, or homemade sauce.
- How do I prevent soggy topping? – Add crackers just before baking with melted butter.
- Can I add vegetables? – Yes, broccoli, peas, and carrots work well.
- How long does it last in the fridge? – Up to 4 days in airtight storage.
- Can I freeze it? – Yes, but add topping before baking.
- Can I make it dairy-free? – Use dairy-free sour cream and butter alternatives.
Final Thoughts on the Chicken on the Ritz Recipe
This Chicken on the Ritz recipe is creamy, crunchy, and comforting. With a few pantry staples, you can create a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Customize it with cheese, veggies, or seasonings and it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
