Ritz Chicken Casserole
This homemade Ritz Chicken Casserole is a hearty and flavorful family favorite that’s ready in less than 30 minutes!!
Ingredients
2-3 tbsp olive oil
2 stalks celery chopped
1 red bell pepper chopped
1 medium onion chopped
1 tbsp minced garlic
2 10.5 oz cans cream of chicken soup
1 cup half and half
2 cups sharp cheddar shredded (shred your own cheese so it melts best!)
3 cups egg noodles cooked
1.5 pounds chicken breast cooked and shredded
1 tbsp parsley
Salt and Pepper to taste
For the Topping
1 sleeve Ritz crackers
1 cup sharp cheddar shredded
4 tbsp butter melted
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
In a 4-quart Dutch oven, add olive oil, bell pepper, onion, celery and cook over medium-high heat until onion is translucent and pepper/celery are becoming tender (about 5-6 minutes).
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring to prevent garlic from burning.
Reduce heat to medium and add cream of chicken soup, half and half, then stir to combine.
Once heated through, add cheese. Continue to stir to melt.
Add cooked egg noodles and shredded chicken once the cheese is all melted.
Season with parsley, salt, and pepper.
Remove from heat and pour into the prepared 9x13 baking dish.
Place the Ritz crackers in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin. Add crackers to a medium bowl.
Stir in melted butter and 1 cup shredded cheddar.
Spread topping over casserole dish.
Place the dish in a preheated oven uncovered and bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
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Ritz Chicken Casserole is not just a dish; it's a family tradition for many. This hearty casserole combines tender chicken breast with a creamy blend of cream of chicken soup and half and half, creating a rich base that pairs perfectly with egg noodles. The addition of bell peppers, celery, and onions brings a fresh crunch, making each bite more enjoyable. One of the secrets to achieving a deliciously melty topping is to shred your own cheese, like sharp cheddar, which enhances the flavor and texture when baked. To simplify the recipe, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Simply store the chopped vegetables, cooked chicken, and cheese in the refrigerator, and mix them when you're ready to cook. The cooking process is straightforward: sauté the vegetables, combine them with the creamy mixture, and layer everything in a baking dish topped with a delightful combination of crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. This technique not only provides a satisfying crunch but also infuses the dish with the buttery flavor of the crackers. Notably, this casserole is versatile. You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your family's taste. Some may enjoy adding a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick or substituting rotisserie chicken for even quicker preparation. With options for chicken dinner ideas or lunch, this casserole is an excellent choice for any occasion, ensuring that your family will be asking for seconds. Enjoy this comforting meal that is sure to bring smiles around the table!
