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Hey ladies you seriously gotta try this. My Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole is like a cozy hug with buttery crunchy goodness up top. It was my mom’s go-to and now my kids can’t stop asking for it every week. Want the best part? It’s made with basic stuff that’s probably in your pantry and you can whip it up super quick on busy nights but still enjoy something homemade that tastes awesome.
Irresistible Reasons to Grab Extra Servings
You know why this one is unforgettable? Every bite checks all the boxes: creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and that dreamy buttery crackly cracker layer that turns so golden. I mix it up all the time with different leftovers in my fridge and it never lets me down. Works for chill weeknights or when I’m feeding a crowd—it always disappears.
Everything You’ll Want on Hand
- That Crunchy Topper: You’ll want some Ritz crackers, melted butter, and a bunch of shredded cheddar—this is the magic for the top.
- Chicken Centerpiece: Stick with about three cups of chopped rotisserie chicken (it’s the shortcut I love).
- Creamy Layer: Mix together a cup of sour cream and a can of cream of chicken soup—makes it rich and cozy.
- Flavor Boost: Sprinkle in a little garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper—nothing wild, but it takes it up a notch.
- The Rice Below: Cook up one box of chicken Rice A Roni—trust me, the flavor is perfect.
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Easy Steps to Make It Happen
- Get Your Stuff Ready
- Turn on your oven at 350°F and spray a 9x13 dish. Whip up your Rice A Roni by following the directions on the box.
- Mix Up the Goodies
- In a big mixing bowl, stir in your sour cream, soup, and those simple spices. Throw in the chopped chicken and your finished rice next.
- Put It All Together
- Spread the mix in your pan. Smash up the crackers, melt your butter, add in cheese, then toss that all over the top.
- Bake to Golden Bliss
- Let it bake about 25 minutes, then pop on the broiler for a few minutes to toast up the top into crunchy perfection.
Fun Twists and Variations
Want to put your own spin on it? Try ground turkey instead of chicken. Toss in some zucchini or mushrooms for more veggies. If you like it meatless just up the veggies for a vegetarian vibe. Change up the rice or try your go-to spices. Cooking’s supposed to be fun so make it yours.
Failsafe Delight Every Time
This dish saves dinner every time at my house. Fewer pans means cleanup’s a breeze and everyone loves that buttery topping. The creamy inside keeps it nice and moist—no dry chicken nightmares. It’s just the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’ve totally got it together.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can this dish be prepped in advance?
You can put it together a day ahead, but leave off the Ritz topping until just before baking to keep it crisp. Cover and chill in the fridge until ready to bake.
- → What’s the easiest way to prepare the chicken?
Using a rotisserie chicken saves time. Boiled chicken breasts, leftovers, or slow-cooked chicken in broth also work well.
- → Can I freeze this chicken bake?
It freezes perfectly for up to 2 months. Before reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and add a fresh Ritz topping for crispiness.
- → Is there an alternative to Rice-A-Roni?
If you don’t have it, regular cooked rice mixed with chicken bouillon works as a substitute. Just cook 2 cups of rice as directed.
- → How can I prevent the topping from burning?
Keep an eye on it during the final broiling step. It only takes 2-3 minutes to crisp up. If burning concerns you, skip broiling altogether.