Wanda'S Chicken Casserole
A creamy, cheesy chicken casserole with crunchy Ritz cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, golden mushroom soup, and sour cream in a mixing bowl.
- Crush Ritz crackers and mix half of the crushed crackers into the chicken mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 12-inch or two 8-inch square baking dishes.
- Spread the remaining crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top.
- Pour melted margarine over all the crackers.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or microwave on High for 15 minutes.
- Freezes well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works great as a substitute for cooked chicken. You can also try adding vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for a comforting family dinner and pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For an added crunch, serve it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or gatherings, and leftovers can be enjoyed as a quick lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions on High for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave's wattage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wanda'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 733 calories, with 14g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1503mg per serving (65% 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 fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken; just cook it thoroughly first, either by boiling or baking, before shredding it for the casserole. Ensure it's well-seasoned for the best flavor.
Is it possible to add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, adding vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers can enhance the dish. Just steam or sauté them lightly before mixing them in to ensure they cook well with the casserole.
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).