Prepare to indulge in a dish that redefines comfort food – the Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also generous enough to fill a large 9×13 casserole dish and a smaller 9×6 one.
Ingredients:
- 3 cans (10.75 oz each) of cream of chicken soup – the creamy base
- 1 container of sour cream – for added richness
- Chopped scallions – for a fresh, oniony crunch
- Shredded chicken – I opted for a rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor
- 2 to 3 sleeves of Ritz Crackers, crushed – for a buttery, crispy topping
- 12 oz of Cavatappi pasta, cooked and drained – for a hearty texture
- Shredded cheese – as much as you like, for cheesy goodness
- 3/4 stick of butter, melted – to drizzle over the crackers
- Black pepper – to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the Cavatappi pasta until al dente, then drain it. This pasta adds a lovely, chewy texture to the casserole.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped scallions, shredded chicken, shredded cheese, and black pepper. This mixture should be creamy and well-combined, with a nice balance of flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole: Layer the cooked pasta at the bottom of your baking dishes. Then, spread the chicken and soup mixture over the pasta. Ensure it’s evenly distributed for a consistent flavor in every bite.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the crushed Ritz Crackers over the top of the casserole. Drizzle the melted butter over the crackers for an extra rich and crispy finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s beautifully golden and bubbling.
Sharing the Love:
I shared the smaller casserole with my neighbor, and it comfortably fed her family of four. The larger dish was more than enough for my family, with plenty of leftovers. This Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is truly the epitome of comfort food, perfect for sharing with neighbors, friends, or enjoying with family.