3. Add Chicken & Cheese
Fold in the shredded chicken and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese.
Season with salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Top with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
5. Make the Ritz Topping
In a bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter.
Stir until fully coated.
6. Add Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle the buttery crackers evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and golden on top.
8. Rest & Serve
Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for the best texture and the fastest prep.
- Add 1 small can of green chiles for a mild flavor kick.
- For extra creaminess, mix in ½ cup cooked bacon or ½ cup cream cheese.
- If reheating, cover with foil so the topping doesn’t over-brown.
Easy Variations & Substitutions
- Swap the meat: Try cooked turkey, ham, or shredded pork.
- Make it spicy: Add cayenne, jalapeños, or pepper jack cheese.
- Add veggies: Mix in cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach.
- Try different toppings: Panko, Cheese-It crumbs, or French fried onions.
Serving, Pairing & Storage
Serving Ideas
- Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles.
- Pair with roasted veggies, salad, or crusty bread.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: Freeze up to 2 months (before or after baking).
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole (but don’t add the topping), refrigerate up to 24 hours, then add the topping and bake.
Can I use low-fat ingredients?
You can, but the casserole won’t be as creamy. Full-fat dairy gives the best texture.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes — drain well first. Fresh or rotisserie chicken tastes best.
