Quick & Tasty Paula Deen Chicken Casserole With Ritz Crackers Recipe

Paula Deen’s chicken casserole with Ritz Crackers represents comfort food at its finest, combining rich, creamy textures with a satisfying crunch.

Southern cuisine knows how to transform simple ingredients into something magical and memorable.

Hearty home cooking often relies on ingenious techniques that elevate basic components into extraordinary dishes.

Layered with tender chicken and a buttery cracker topping, this casserole promises warmth and nostalgia in every delectable bite.

Creamy sauces merge seamlessly with perfectly seasoned protein, creating a harmonious blend that speaks to family traditions.

Crisp cracker crumbs add unexpected depth and textural contrast to the smooth, velvety base.

Home cooks appreciate recipes that deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort, making this casserole a weeknight dinner champion.

Prepare to experience a culinary journey that celebrates simplicity and soul-warming deliciousness:

Storing Paula’s Casserole Without Losing Flavor

• Freezer Storage: Wrap individual portions in heavy-duty aluminum foil or freeze-safe containers for maximum preservation. Protect the crispy Ritz cracker topping by placing a layer of parchment paper between the casserole and foil. Frozen casserole maintains peak quality for 2-3 months when sealed correctly.
• Refrigeration Strategy: Transfer leftover casserole to shallow airtight containers within two hours of cooking. Place containers on the middle shelf to maintain consistent temperature and prevent potential bacterial growth. Label containers with preparation date to track freshness and consume within 3-4 days.
• Quick Reheating Method: Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Preheat oven to 350°F and cover dish with foil to prevent cracker topping from burning.

Easy Ways to Add a Twist to Paula’s Chicken Casserole

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Casserole: Kick up the flavor by adding diced jalapeños, chili powder, and cumin to the chicken mixture. Top with pepper jack cheese and crushed spicy Doritos instead of Ritz crackers for an extra zesty experience.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Casserole: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a blend of oregano and thyme into the chicken mixture. Replace Ritz crackers with seasoned breadcrumbs and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Casserole: Mix in crispy bacon bits and ranch seasoning to the chicken mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crushed ranch-flavored crackers for a rich, creamy variation that brings bold flavor to the classic recipe.
• Healthy Veggie-Packed Chicken Casserole: Add diced bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms to the chicken mixture. Use whole wheat crackers for the topping and incorporate Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce calories while maintaining a creamy texture.

Our Thoughts on Paula’s Chicken Ritz Casserole

Comfort classics like Paula Deen’s chicken casserole whisper heartwarming memories of family gatherings.

Southern kitchen magic transforms simple ingredients into culinary poetry.

Buttery Ritz cracker crumbs create a crispy golden landscape atop creamy chicken perfection.

Sour cream and green onions dance with shredded chicken in harmonious celebration.

Warm, inviting aromas promise delicious nostalgia within each spoonful.

Hungry souls will discover pure southern comfort waiting – so scroll down, share this delectable recipe with friends, drop a comment celebrating home-style cooking, and spread deliciousness far and wide!

What Makes Paula’s Ritz Chicken Casserole So Comforting

• Creamy Comfort in Minutes: Whip up a soul-warming chicken casserole that delivers rich, velvety flavors in just 35 minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute meal solutions.
• Crunchy Cracker Magic: The buttery Ritz cracker topping transforms an ordinary casserole into a crispy, golden-brown masterpiece with an irresistible texture that adds delightful crunch to every single bite.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Satisfaction: This foolproof recipe requires simple ingredients and basic mixing skills, making it an ideal dish for home cooks of all skill levels who want a delicious meal without complicated techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Crowd-Feeder: The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and buttery cracker topping creates a universally appealing dish that satisfies both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings or potluck events.

All the Ingredients in Paula’s Chicken Ritz Casserole

• Chicken: Classic protein that provides main substance and heartiness to the casserole, best when shredded and tender.

• Cream of Chicken Soup, Sour Cream: Rich and smooth components that create a velvety texture and enhance overall flavor profile.
• Green Onion: Adds fresh, mild onion flavor and provides a subtle aromatic touch to the creamy mixture.

• Ritz Crackers: Provides crunchy, buttery topping that adds delightful texture and golden-brown appearance.
• Butter: Helps bind cracker crumbs and creates a crispy, golden coating for the casserole.

How to Cook Paula Deen’s Famous Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Oven And Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously spray a 2.5-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Creamy Mixture

• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• 2 chopped green onions

Whisk ingredients until smooth and well blended.

Step 3: Incorporate Chicken

Gently fold shredded chicken into the creamy mixture, ensuring even distribution of meat throughout the sauce.

Step 4: Layer Casserole Base

Spread the chicken and cream mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a uniform layer.

Step 5: Craft Crispy Topping

• Crushed Ritz crackers
• Melted butter

Stir until crackers are completely coated with butter.

Step 6: Finish And Bake

Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the casserole, covering the entire surface. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Helpful Hints for Paula’s Cozy Casserole

• Boost Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle extra sharp cheddar into the chicken mixture for a mouthwatering flavor explosion that'll make everyone ask for seconds.
• Cut Salt Smartly: Swap regular butter and crackers with unsalted versions to create a lighter, healthier dish without sacrificing taste.
• Prep Ahead Magic: Assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully before baking.
• Crunch Control: Crush Ritz crackers slightly coarser for a more pronounced texture that adds delightful crackle to every bite.
• Leftover Love: Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container for up to three days, reheating gently to maintain its creamy, comforting appeal.

Paula Deen Chicken Casserole With Ritz Crackers Recipe

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4.6 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Paula Deen’s chicken casserole blends Southern comfort with creamy, cheesy goodness. Ritz cracker crumbs create a golden, buttery crust that elevates this classic dish to irresistible heights you’ll savor with pure delight.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)

Dairy and Cream:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 10.5 ounces (298 grams) condensed cream of chicken with herbs soup
• ½ cup (1 stick or 113 grams) salted butter, melted

Dry Ingredients and Garnish:

• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
• ½ cup sliced green onion

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating it to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly coat a 2.5-quart baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Create a creamy base by whisking together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and finely chopped green onions in a spacious mixing bowl until smooth and well-combined.
3. Fold the tender shredded chicken into the creamy mixture, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the sauce.
4. Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to distribute it evenly across the surface.
5. Crush the Ritz crackers into fine, uniform crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor.
6. Melt the butter completely, then blend it thoroughly with the cracker crumbs to create a rich, golden topping.
7. Distribute the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken casserole, creating an even layer that will turn crisp and golden during baking.
8. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a beautifully bronzed cracker topping and bubbling edges that indicate the dish is heated through.

Notes

• Customize your dish by sprinkling sharp cheddar cheese into the chicken mixture for a tangy twist that elevates the overall taste.
• Lower the sodium content effortlessly by selecting unsalted butter and crackers, making this recipe more heart-friendly and diet-conscious.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 870 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 29 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg