Irresistible Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole Bakes in Just 35 Minutes Recipe

Introduction

This irresistible Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal that bakes up golden and delicious in just 35 minutes. With tender chicken, creamy rice, and a crunchy buttery cracker topping, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked white rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Step 3: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the cracker and butter mixture evenly over the top of the chicken and rice mixture in the baking dish.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture before baking.
• Use cooked rice instead of uncooked, adjusting baking time to 20-25 minutes accordingly.
• Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier taste and added creaminess.
• Try mixing in some frozen peas or chopped mushrooms for added vegetables.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred it before mixing with the other ingredients.

Is it okay to use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook. Pre-cook the rice before mixing, or adjust baking time to ensure the rice is fully tender.

Irresistible Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole Bakes in Just 35 Minutes Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 438 reviews

This irresistible Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that comes together in just 35 minutes. Featuring tender shredded chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, flavorful topping of buttery Ritz crackers, this casserole is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal.

• Author: Tim
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 30 crackers)
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole.
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, uncooked white rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Pour the chicken and rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Make the Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until all crackers are coated.
5. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to form a golden crust upon baking.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cracker topping turns a beautiful golden brown.
7. Cool Before Serving: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.

Notes

• Use cooked chicken from leftovers or a rotisserie chicken to save time.
• For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup of shredded cheese before adding the cracker topping.
• If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Make sure to cover the baking dish with foil during the first 20 minutes if the topping browns too quickly, then uncover for the last 10-15 minutes.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

Keywords: Ritz chicken casserole, chicken and rice bake, easy chicken casserole, comfort food, quick dinner