Paula Deen Chicken Casserole With Ritz Crackers

Introduction

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is the perfect dish. This Southern-style casserole is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery, crispy Ritz cracker crust. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and loved by both kids and adults.

This classic chicken casserole is great for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a warm and satisfying meal in no time. Let’s dive into this delicious Paula Deen-inspired recipe and bring some Southern charm to your table!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is rich, creamy, and irresistibly crunchy. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Super Easy to Make: Just mix, top with crackers, and bake—no complicated steps!
• Comfort Food at Its Best: A creamy filling with a crunchy, buttery topping makes it a family favorite.
• Perfect for Leftovers: It tastes even better the next day and is great for meal prep.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Bring it to a potluck, holiday gathering, or Sunday dinner—everyone will ask for the recipe!
• Customizable: Add vegetables, different cheeses, or even bacon to make it your own.

Ingredients To Make Paula Deen Chicken Casserole With Ritz Crackers

Here’s What You’ll Need:

For the Casserole Filling:

• Cooked Chicken: 3 cups (shredded or cubed, rotisserie chicken works great).
• Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces).
• Sour Cream: 1 cup (adds extra creaminess).
• Milk: ½ cup (to thin out the sauce).
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (sharp cheddar gives the best flavor).
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon (for extra flavor).
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

For the Ritz Cracker Topping:

• Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve (about 30 crackers, crushed).
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick, melted).

Optional Add-Ins:

• Frozen Peas or Mixed Vegetables: 1 cup (for extra nutrition).
• Bacon Bits: ½ cup (because everything is better with bacon!).
• Mushrooms or Bell Peppers: ½ cup, chopped (for added texture and flavor).

How To Make Paula Deen Chicken Casserole With Ritz Crackers

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• If you’re adding vegetables or bacon, mix them in now.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.

4. Make the Ritz Cracker Topping

• Place Ritz crackers in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
• Mix the cracker crumbs with melted butter in a small bowl.
• Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole.

5. Bake the Casserole

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

6. Let It Cool and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot!

Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Casserole

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
• Shred Chicken Easily: Use a hand mixer to quickly shred warm cooked chicken.
• Make It Spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Add Vegetables: Broccoli, mushrooms, or peas make this casserole even heartier.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What To Serve With Paula Deen Chicken Casserole With Ritz Crackers

This casserole pairs perfectly with classic Southern side dishes:

• Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the creamy casserole.
• Mashed Potatoes: Extra creamy potatoes complement this rich dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or green beans are great choices.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bite of sauce.
• A Glass of White Wine: A Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the creamy flavors.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450-500
Protein	30-35g
Carbohydrates	30-35g
Fat	20-25g
Fiber	2-3g

Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.

Essential Kitchen Tools for This Recipe

To make this Southern-style chicken casserole, you’ll need:

• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish – The perfect size for even cooking.
• Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients easily.
• Grater or Microplane – For freshly shredded cheese.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure accurate measurements.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers
• Meatball Pasta Recipe Creamy
• Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole with Bow Tie Pasta
• Shrimp Pineapple Fried Rice
• Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice
• Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice
• Ground Beef Fried Rice
• Korean Beef Fried Rice
• Chicken Pineapple Fried Rice
• Swedish Meatball Pasta Bake

FAQs

1. Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option for this recipe.

2. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, just add 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I Freeze This Casserole?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen at 350°F for 45-50 minutes.

4. Can I Use a Different Type of Cracker?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers, you can use saltine crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed Corn Flakes.

5. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 15 minutes or microwave for a quick meal.

Recipe Cards

Conclusion

This Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, potluck, or holiday meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!

Try this delicious Southern classic today and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that brings everyone together.

For more comforting recipes, visit Taste Bliss Recipe.

Loved this recipe? Share it and leave a review!