Chicken And Ritz
Creamy chicken casserole combining tender chicken, cheese, celery, and mushrooms, baked with Ritz cracker crumbs for a comforting, flavorful dish ideal for family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken until done, then remove the bones.
- In a mixing bowl, combine broth, diced celery, Velveeta cheese, sliced onion, eggs, and mushroom soup.
- Add the cooked chicken, Ritz cracker crumbs, salt, and pepper to the mixture.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or longer until bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme and rosemary to the mixture. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the Velveeta cheese. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded properly for even distribution in the dish. This recipe also works well with leftover chicken from Paw Paw's Barbecue Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken And Ritz casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Have A Good Day Soup for a comforting dinner combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Ritz contains roughly 270 calories, with 6g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with any creamy cheese that melts well, such as cream cheese or cheddar. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and additional vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).