This RITZ Chicken and Rice Casserole is a hearty dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy rice, all topped with crispy RITZ crackers. It’s creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavor!
I love how easy it is to make: just mix it all together and bake! It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and satisfying without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my favorite for ease. You can also use leftover chicken. For a vegetarian version, try chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms.
Instant White Rice: Instant rice is quick, but you can swap it for cooked brown rice or quinoa. Just adjust the liquid since brown rice needs more cooking time.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess. If you prefer homemade, mix cream with chicken broth and seasonings. For a lighter touch, use cream of mushroom soup.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies are convenient! You can substitute fresh ones, but you’ll need to cook them a bit longer before adding them to the casserole.
Ritz Crackers: These give a nice crunch. If you don’t have Ritz, you can use any buttery cracker or even plain breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter.
How Do I Ensure the Casserole is Creamy and Well-Combined?
The key to a smooth and creamy casserole is mixing the ingredients thoroughly! Make sure to integrate the shredded chicken, rice, and liquids well. Here are some tips:
- Use a large bowl to give yourself room to mix without making a mess.
- Ensure the chicken is warm; cold chicken can cause the casserole to not mix well.
- Don’t skip the sour cream! It helps bind everything together and adds flavor.
By focusing on these steps, you’ll end up with a delightful, creamy casserole every time! Don’t rush through this step; it makes a big difference in texture.
How to Make Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup instant white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 40-45 minutes to bake. So in total, you’ll need about 1 hour to make this comforting dish, perfect for any family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for our casserole!
2. Combine the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together your shredded chicken, instant rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and the frozen mixed vegetables. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Pour into Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Pour your chicken and rice mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
4. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top of the mixture. This will melt beautifully while baking!
5. Prepare the Ritz Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are fully coated in the butter.
6. Top the Casserole:
Evenly sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture over the cheese layer in your casserole. This will give it a lovely crunch!
7. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. It’s ready when it’s heated through and the top is a lovely golden brown and crispy.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole with family and friends!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe as it adds great flavor. Just shred enough chicken to make 2 cups, and it will save you time on cooking and shredding!
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a similar tangy taste and creamy texture. Another option is to use a mix of equal parts cream cheese and milk for a richer flavor.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep the topping crispy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to mix it up! You can add any of your favorite vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly in the casserole.
