Name: Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Cooked White Rice: 2 cups (long-grain or jasmine recommended); Shredded Cooked Chicken: 3 cups (rotisserie, boiled, or leftover); Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces); Sour Cream: 1 cup; Milk: ½ cup (to thin out the sauce); Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup; Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup; Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon; Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon; Salt & Black Pepper: To taste; Ritz Crackers: 1 ½ cups, crushed; Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted; Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated (optional for extra flavor)

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 26 reviews

If you crave the ultimate weeknight comfort meal, this Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine tender shreds of juicy chicken, nestled with fluffy rice and wrapped in a velvety, cheesy sauce, all tucked under a golden layer of buttery Ritz cracker crumbs. This recipe combines the best of easy, hearty cooking with nostalgic flavors and a delightful crunch on top. Trust me, it’s a soul-warming family dinner, a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, and a meal-prep dream—plus, it comes together quickly without fuss!

Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role in creating the mouthwatering flavor and irresistible texture that define this Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole. These are simple, honest ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, but together they transform into something extraordinary.

Cooked White Rice: Fluffy rice soaks up the creamy sauce and creates the hearty base of the casserole.
Shredded Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie, leftover, or poached chicken add protein and comfort to every bite.
Cream of Chicken Soup: The backbone of the creamy sauce—use a quality canned variety or homemade if you like.
Sour Cream: Brings delightful tang and a luxurious, smooth texture.
Milk: Helps loosen the sauce just enough so it bakes up perfectly.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For rich, sharp flavor and gooey meltiness.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Adds creaminess and irresistible cheese pulls.
Garlic Powder: A little garlicky warmth in every bite.
Onion Powder: Sweet savory flavor without the need for chopping onions.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the whole dish.
Ritz Crackers: The classic topping—crushed Ritz add buttery crunch that’s totally addictive.
Butter: Melted and tossed with crackers for a golden, crisp finish.
Parmesan Cheese (optional): Extra umami and a touch of saltiness in the topping.

How to Make Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by getting your oven nice and toasty at 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease your 9×13-inch casserole or baking dish with butter or a light spritz of non-stick spray. A little prep here ensures nothing sticks and you get easy, clean slices when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a big mixing bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is blended into a smooth, dreamy sauce. This creamy base will bind the chicken and rice, making every forkful luscious and flavorful.

Step 3: Add Chicken, Rice, and Cheese

Time to build substance! Mix in the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cheddar, and mozzarella. Make sure every grain of rice and piece of chicken is coated in cheesy, savory goodness. You’ll notice the mixture is thick and decadent—just the way we want it!

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon the creamy chicken and rice mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out gently with a spatula so every corner is filled—this helps the casserole bake up beautifully and keeps each portion balanced.

Step 5: Make the Ritz Cracker Topping

For the signature crunch of Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter (and parmesan, if you like even more flavor). Sprinkle this buttery, crumbly mixture evenly over the casserole, ensuring an even layer for that irresistible crunch in every bite.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Slide the casserole, uncovered, into the oven. After 30 to 35 minutes, the top should be golden brown, and the edges deliciously bubbly. The aromas will fill your kitchen and set hungry mouths to watering!

Step 7: Cool & Serve

After baking, let your casserole stand for about 5 minutes. This makes it easier to cut and allows the sauce to thicken just right. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness—then dig in and enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole

Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top not only looks beautiful but adds a hint of brightness that cuts through the rich cheesy sauce. For those who love a little heat, scatter some red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce just before serving. Even a squeeze of fresh lemon can punch up the flavor if you like things zesty!

Side Dishes

While Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, serving it with a crisp green salad, simple steamed green beans, or roasted carrots brings welcome freshness to the plate. Dinner rolls or garlic bread are perfect for scooping up every last bit of that cheesy sauce, so don’t skip the breadbasket!

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking individual portions in ramekins for elegant dinner parties or potlucks—everyone loves their own little casserole! You can also serve it family-style, straight from the baking dish, letting everyone dig in and help themselves. For a cute potluck touch, consider using a disposable foil pan to make transport and cleanup a breeze.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole stores beautifully! Simply let it cool, wrap it tightly or transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. It reheats well, and the flavors only get more comforting after a little rest.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the casserole but hold off on adding the cracker topping until just before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add your Ritz cracker topping, and bake as usual!

Reheating

Gently reheat leftover portions in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until hot throughout (about 20 minutes), or microwave individual servings until steamy. Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess, and toss a few fresh crackers on top for crunch if the original topping softens.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut. It’s flavorful, juicy, and shreds easily, saving you prep time while still delivering delicious results in your casserole.

What’s the best rice to use for this casserole?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice both work beautifully, absorbing the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. If you’re feeling healthy, brown rice is also a tasty—and slightly nutty—option, just cook it separately before assembling.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely! Stir in a cup of frozen peas, sautéed mushrooms, or some diced bell peppers for colorful nutrition and extra flavor. Just be sure to use cooked or thawed veggies so they blend seamlessly into the casserole.

How do I make this casserole gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole, simply choose gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a super easy swap for those with dietary needs.

Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the base up to a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Add the Ritz cracker topping just before baking for the crispiest results. It’s perfect for stress-free entertaining or make-ahead meal prep.

Final Thoughts

If your goal is to serve up smiles and second helpings, this Creamy Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole will deliver every single time. The blend of creamy, cheesy flavors and that signature buttery crunch is downright irresistible. Give it a try soon—you’ll love how easy, comforting, and delicious it is!