Nina'S Really Good Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole with crunchy cracker topping, creamy chicken filling, and savory soup, perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Crush two sleeves of Ritz crackers and mix with two sticks of melted margarine.
- Press most of the cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Spread cooked 3 cups of chicken evenly over the cracker crust.
- In a bowl, mix 8 oz of sour cream with two cans of cream of chicken soup until well combined.
- Pour the sour cream and soup mixture over the chicken in the baking pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining cracker mixture on top of the soup layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic with the chicken. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. You can also use homemade chicken broth instead of cream of chicken soup for a fresher taste. This recipe can be customized by adding vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting chicken casserole with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli for a balanced meal. A fresh green salad pairs nicely to add some crunch and freshness. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or garlic bread. This casserole also pairs beautifully with Honey French Chicken for a delicious dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nina'S Really Good Chicken Casserole contains roughly 707 calories, with 12g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 890mg per serving (39% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked in this casserole?
It's best to use cooked chicken in this recipe as it ensures the casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly. If you only have raw chicken, you can cook it first by boiling or baking, then shredding it before proceeding with the recipe.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can substitute with crushed saltine crackers or even panko breadcrumbs for a different texture. Just adjust the amount of butter if using panko, as it may absorb less moisture.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).