Cracker Chicken Casserole
Creamy, crunchy cracker-topped chicken casserole combining tender chicken, savory soups, and buttery crackers, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil chicken for about 30 to 40 minutes on medium heat. After the chicken is done, cut into small pieces and place in a large casserole dish.
- In a saucepan, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of chicken broth, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Cook on low heat, stirring to prevent sticking and burning, until the sauce is warm.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and gently stir to mix well.
- Crush the Ritz crackers and evenly cover the top of the casserole.
- Drizzle a generous amount of melted butter over the crushed crackers.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until the crackers start browning, about 15 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye to prevent burning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a little milk or chicken broth to the sauce mixture. You can substitute the Ritz crackers with any other buttery cracker or even crushed cornflakes for a different crunch. For added flavor, mix in some garlic powder or onion powder into the sauce. This dish is similar to recipes like Pat'S Barbecue Chicken, which feature comforting, creamy elements.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a dollop of salsa or pico de gallo for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the crackers may lose their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cracker Chicken Casserole contains roughly 515 calories, with 24g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1024mg per serving (45% 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 leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and mix it with the sauce before layering it in the casserole dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make it gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers and ensure the cream soups are certified gluten-free. Many brands offer suitable alternatives that will work in this recipe.
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).