Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful dish that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This creamy chicken casserole recipe with Ritz crackers is the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's a delicious blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the satisfying crunch of Ritz crackers – a true comfort food classic elevated for the modern cook. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers, crushed
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken and Vegetables
If you're not using rotisserie chicken, start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can boil, bake, or pan-fry them – whatever your preferred method is. Once cooked, let them cool slightly before shredding them. While the chicken cools, chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds a depth of flavor that makes all the difference.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to a large bowl. Add the shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. If you prefer a thinner sauce, add a little more milk.
Step 4: Baking the Casserole
Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top.
Step 5: Baking to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. The crackers will add a wonderful crispy topping, and the casserole will be heated through.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly and makes it easier to serve. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- If you like a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- You can substitute other crackers for the Ritz crackers, but the Ritz adds a unique flavor and texture.
- For a creamier casserole, use heavy cream instead of milk.
Variations:
- Cheesy Chicken Casserole: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture.
- Mushroom Chicken Casserole: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Vegetable Chicken Casserole: Add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or corn.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This chicken casserole recipe with Ritz crackers is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are easy to prepare. It's a great option for healthy meals and a go-to for quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the process of homemade cooking and savor every bite of this comfort food classic.