Puttin' On The Ritz Chicken Casserole
A creamy, cheesy chicken casserole with crispy Ritz cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering comfort food with savory flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil chicken breasts until done.
- Cool and cube the cooked chicken.
- Melt 1/2 stick of margarine (oleo) and pour into a glass casserole dish.
- Add the cubed chicken to the casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix sour cream and cream of chicken soup.
- Pour the sour cream and soup mixture over the chicken in the casserole dish.
- Crush Ritz crackers and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Pour the remaining 1/2 stick of margarine (oleo) over the crushed crackers.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese to the sour cream and soup mixture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for boiling your own chicken. To enhance the flavor, add seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder to the chicken before baking. You might also experiment with different cracker toppings if you're not a fan of Ritz.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables, such as green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts, for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside Minnie Loyd'S Vegetable Soup for a comforting dinner combination. A simple fruit salad can also add a refreshing touch to the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Puttin' On The Ritz Chicken Casserole contains roughly 532 calories, with 32g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 801mg per serving (35% 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 any type of chicken for this casserole?
Yes, you can use any type of cooked chicken, including rotisserie or leftover chicken from other meals. Just ensure it's shredded or cubed for even distribution in the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I do if I don't have sour cream?
If you're out of sour cream, you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, a mixture of cream cheese and a bit of milk can work as a substitute, giving a rich consistency.
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).