When I think of comfort food, Paula Deen’s chicken casserole with Ritz crackers always comes to mind. It’s one of those dishes that feels warm and familiar, the kind you can put together without a lot of fuss but still looks and tastes special.
The creamy chicken filling pairs perfectly with the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers on top, giving every bite a balance of soft and crispy. I like how simple the ingredients are, yet the flavor is rich and satisfying.
Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this casserole is a recipe I keep coming back to.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole has everything you love in a family meal: tender shredded chicken, a creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping that adds just the right amount of texture. It’s easy enough for beginners yet flavorful enough to impress guests.
Best of all, it’s versatile. You can tweak the filling to suit your preferences, use leftover chicken or rotisserie, and customize the topping to your liking. It’s a meal that’s as practical as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works well)
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pro Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- Crush Ritz crackers lightly—some larger pieces give the topping great texture.
- Melt butter fully before combining with crackers so the topping bakes evenly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set.
- For a golden topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts
Substitutions & Variations
- Soup base: Swap cream of chicken for cream of mushroom or celery.
- Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for variety.
- Topping: Use crushed cornflakes, potato chips, or panko breadcrumbs.
- Protein: Replace chicken with turkey for a great way to use holiday leftovers.
- Vegetables: Stir in peas, broccoli, or green beans for added nutrition.
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge 20 minutes beforehand and bake as directed.
You can also freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare Filling
In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer to Dish
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Make Topping
In a separate bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir until crackers are coated.
5. Add Topping
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling.
6. Bake
Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven, let rest for 5 minutes, and sprinkle with parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance. It also goes beautifully with fluffy dinner rolls or cornbread to soak up the creamy sauce.
For a more filling meal, serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of sautéed green beans.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes to keep the topping crisp.
This casserole also freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, and thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Benefits
Chicken provides lean protein, while the casserole’s creamy base delivers comfort and flavor. Adding vegetables can boost fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making the dish more balanced.
Homemade versions like this allow you to control ingredients, sodium, and portion sizes while still enjoying a comforting Southern classic.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, though fresh or rotisserie chicken provides better texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and substitute gluten-free crackers.
3. How can I lighten it up?
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
4. Can I make this in smaller portions?
Yes, assemble in smaller baking dishes and adjust baking time accordingly.
5. How do I keep the topping crisp when reheating?
Reheat in the oven instead of the microwave for best results.
A Classic Southern Comfort Dish
Paula Deen’s chicken casserole with Ritz crackers is a timeless recipe that delivers comfort in every bite. It’s creamy, hearty, and topped with that irresistible buttery crunch that makes it unforgettable.
Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a family favorite that belongs in your dinner rotation. It’s easy, flexible, and always a crowd-pleaser.
