Ritz Chicken Casserole is straightforward to prepare and does not require advanced cooking skills. Follow these steps carefully for the best results.
- Cook the chicken: Cook the chicken breasts until fully done, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Cook the noodles: Boil the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add celery, red bell pepper, and onion. Cook until softened, then stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, half and half, parsley, and 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, noodles, and sautéed vegetables to the sauce. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare the topping: Crush the Ritz crackers and mix with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole, then top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly and golden on top.
- Rest before serving: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to help it set.
The finished casserole should be creamy inside with a crisp, buttery topping.
Serving and Storage:
Ritz Chicken Casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with simple side dishes such as a green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven until heated through.
This casserole can also be frozen before or after baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.
Tips:
To make your Ritz Chicken Casserole even better, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Do not overcook the noodles, as they will soften further while baking.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
- Crush crackers coarsely for better texture.
- Add vegetables evenly for balanced bites.
- Cover loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
These small adjustments can help you achieve the perfect casserole every time.
Conclusion:
Ritz Chicken Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. With its creamy filling, tender chicken, and buttery cracker topping, it is the kind of meal that brings warmth and familiarity to the table.
Easy to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion, this casserole is a dependable recipe that fits seamlessly into busy schedules and special gatherings alike. Once you try it, it is sure to earn a permanent place in your collection of comfort food favorites.
FAQ:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, it can be assembled ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Leftover or rotisserie chicken works very well.
Can I substitute the soup?
Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can be used for variation.
How do I keep the topping crunchy?
Add the cracker topping just before baking and avoid covering tightly while cooling.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, peas, carrots, or mushrooms can be added based on preference.