Paula Deen’s Classic Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

This classic Southern comfort food dish is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make and satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Paula Deen’s famous chicken casserole with Ritz crackers is a masterclass in comfort food, combining the richness of chicken, the crunch of Ritz crackers, and the creaminess of a well-balanced sauce.

The key to this dish lies in its simplicity, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With a cooking time of approximately 35-40 minutes at 180°C / 350°F, it’s a quick and delicious solution for any meal.

Key ingredients include 450 g / 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, 120 g / 1/2 cup of butter, and 200 g / 1 cup of Ritz crackers. These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both familiar and comforting, making it a great addition to any meal rotation.

Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

This comforting casserole is a Southern classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and buttery Ritz crackers combine for a flavor explosion that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

What you’ll need:

• 240 g / 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 190 g / 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (170 g / 6 oz) Ritz crackers, crushed
• 4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, melted

Prep time:

15 minutes

Cook time:

30 minutes at 180°C / 350°F

Gather Your Ingredients: The Essential Components of Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

This classic Southern casserole is a staple for a reason. To make it, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (680g / 2 3/4 cups)
• 1 medium onion, chopped (115g / 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (6g / 1 tablespoon)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (115g / 4 oz)
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (55g / 2 oz)
• 1 can (10 3/4 oz / 305g) of condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup milk (240ml / 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (4g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (2g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1g)
• 1 cup Ritz crackers, crushed (120g / 1 cup)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (30g / 2 tablespoons)

Optional ingredients to take your casserole to the next level:

• Diced bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor and spice
• Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
• Additional shredded cheese, such as Parmesan or mozzarella

Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Assembling and Baking Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a golden-brown, creamy, and delicious chicken casserole.

To assemble and bake the casserole, start by preheating the oven to 180°C / 350°F, ensuring it reaches the correct temperature before proceeding with the recipe.

1. Butter a 20×30 cm / 9×13 inch baking dish with 15 g / 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, making sure to cover the entire surface to prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 500 g / 2 cups of cooked chicken, 240 g / 1 cup of cream of chicken soup, and 120 g / 1/2 cup of sour cream, mixing until the ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
3. Add 120 g / 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 60 g / 1/4 cup of chopped scallions to the chicken mixture, stirring until the cheese is fully coated and the scallions are evenly distributed.
4. In a separate bowl, mix 120 g / 1/2 cup of crushed Ritz crackers with 30 g / 2 tablespoons of melted butter, stirring until the crackers are evenly moistened and the mixture is crumbly.
5. Spread half of the chicken mixture in the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the Ritz cracker mixture, creating a solid layer of each ingredient.
6. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining chicken mixture, then the remaining Ritz cracker mixture, finishing with a solid layer of crackers on top.
7. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven at 180°C / 350°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
8. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a delicious and creamy chicken casserole with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, perfect for any occasion.

Tips and Variations

To add some extra flavor to the casserole, you can sprinkle some dried herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, over the top of the Ritz cracker mixture before baking.

• Use low-sodium cream of chicken soup to reduce the salt content of the casserole.
• Add some diced vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan, to create a unique flavor profile.

With these instructions and tips, you’ll be able to create a mouth-watering Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Pro Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Paula Deen Chicken Casserole

Ready to elevate your Paula Deen Chicken Casserole game? These tips and tricks, honed over years of baking, will ensure a creamy, flavorful, and perfectly golden casserole every time.

Chicken for Success

1. Don’t overcook the chicken! Cook it just until it’s no longer pink inside. Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough, making your casserole less enjoyable.
2. Shred it right. Use two forks to shred the chicken, ensuring even pieces for consistent texture throughout the casserole.

Ritz Cracker Crunch

• For extra crunch, toast the Ritz crackers! Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 175°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
• Don’t overcrowd the casserole dish. Leave a little space between the crackers to ensure they crisp up evenly.

Creamy Consistency

For a luxuriously creamy casserole, use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream. This creates a rich, flavorful sauce that coats the chicken and vegetables perfectly.

Avoiding a Soggy Bottom

Prevent a soggy bottom by ensuring the casserole dish is properly preheated before adding the ingredients. This helps create a crust that will hold up against the moist filling.

Make it Your Own: Substitutions and Variations for Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

Want to give this classic casserole a personal touch? Try these creative substitutions and variations to suit your taste.

Meat Substitutions

• Shrimp: Replace 500g (1.1lb) of chicken with 450g (1lb) of peeled and deveined shrimp. This will change the flavor profile significantly, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Ground Turkey or Beef: Use 450g (1lb) of ground turkey or beef instead of chicken. This will add a heartier texture and change the flavor slightly.

Cheesy Twists

• Cheddar and Parmesan: Mix 120g (1/2 cup) of grated cheddar and 60g (1/4 cup) of grated Parmesan into the casserole for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Feta and Mozzarella: Replace 120g (1/2 cup) of cheddar with 120g (1/2 cup) of crumbled feta and 60g (1/4 cup) of shredded mozzarella for a salty, creamy twist.

Crunchy Toppings

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Replace 120g (1 cup) of Ritz crackers with 120g (1 cup) of Panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier topping.

Remember, these substitutions and variations are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment and create your own unique flavor combinations!

Creative Variations: Taking Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole to the Next Level

For a fresh twist on the classic Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers, try these creative variations:

• Mushroom and Leek Version: Sautéed mushrooms and leeks add an earthy flavor. Increase cooking time by 10-12 minutes, or until the casserole reaches 165°C / 325°F.
• Spicy Southwestern: Add diced jalapeños and a sprinkle of cumin for a spicy kick. This variation requires no additional cooking time.
• Bacon and Chive: Crushed bacon and chopped chives introduce a smoky, oniony flavor. Add 5-7 minutes to the cooking time to ensure the bacon is crispy, with the casserole at 175°C / 350°F.
• Lemon and Herb: Mix in lemon zest, chopped parsley, and thyme for a bright, herby taste. This variation cooks in the standard time, at 165°C / 325°F.

These variations offer a range of flavors to enhance the classic Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers, using ingredients like 240 g / 1 cup of mixed mushrooms or 115 g / 1/2 cup of crumbled bacon.

Storing and Reheating Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole: Tips and Tricks

Made a big batch of Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole and have leftovers? Fantastic! This creamy, cheesy dish is even better the next day. But to ensure it tastes its best, here’s how to store and reheat it like a pro.

Storage

Let the casserole cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the casserole soggy.

• Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Pro tip: For even longer storage, consider freezing the casserole in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

There are a couple of ways to reheat your casserole:

1. Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
2. Microwave: Place a portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

Common Pitfall: Avoid over-microwaving the casserole, as this can cause it to dry out.

Troubleshooting Common Issues: Fixing Problems with Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

Encountering issues with your casserole? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some common problems and their fixes to ensure your Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers turns out delicious:

• Issue: Dry or Overcooked Chicken

  Fix: Check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 74°C (165°F) for breast meat and 82°C (180°F) for thigh meat. If it’s overcooked, try reducing the baking time or covering the casserole to prevent further cooking.

• Issue: Soggy Ritz Cracker Topping

  Fix: Ensure the Ritz crackers are evenly toasted and not overlapping. You can also try baking the casserole for a shorter time or at a lower temperature to prevent the crackers from getting too brown.

• Issue: Lack of Creamy Sauce

  Fix: Make sure to use the right amount of cream of chicken soup and evaporated milk. If the sauce is too thin, try adding a little more cream of chicken soup or reducing the amount of milk.

By following these troubleshooting tips, you’ll be able to fix common issues and create a mouth-watering Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers that’s sure to please.

Nutrition Information: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

This comforting chicken casserole with Ritz crackers has a rich nutritional profile. Per serving, it contains approximately 540 calories, with a macro breakdown of 35g protein, 40g fat, and 25g carbohydrates.

• Calories: 540 per serving
• Macros: 35g protein, 40g fat, 25g carbohydrates

Diet tags: not Gluten-Free (GF), not Dairy-Free (DF), not Vegan. This dish is best suited for those without strict dietary restrictions, as it contains dairy, gluten from the Ritz crackers, and chicken.

Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know about Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole

This classic Southern recipe is a staple for a reason – it’s comforting, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Here are the key takeaways to get you started:

• Simple Ingredients: This casserole requires just a few ingredients, including boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cream of chicken soup, and Ritz crackers. You might already have these staples in your pantry.
• Easy Assembly: The casserole comes together quickly, with the chicken and soup mixture layered with Ritz crackers and cheese. No need to fuss over complicated techniques or multiple components.
• Flexible Cooking Options: This recipe can be baked in the oven or cooked in a slow cooker. Choose the method that suits your schedule and preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. Perfect for meal prep or a busy weeknight dinner.
• Delicious Results: The combination of creamy soup, crunchy Ritz crackers, and melted cheese creates a satisfying, comforting casserole that’s sure to please.

A Personal Touch from Our Team

When it comes to comforting, homestyle dishes, the Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers is a true standout. This classic recipe has been a staple for many, and for good reason – the combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy Ritz crackers is absolute perfection.

To make this dish even more special, we’ve added a few notes from our team to ensure your cooking experience is seamless and enjoyable. Be sure to preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F before starting, and have all your ingredients ready, including 240 g / 1 cup of Ritz crackers.

• For an extra crispy topping, try baking the casserole for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the crackers are golden brown.
• Consider using 450 g / 2 cups of mixed chicken – a combination of white and dark meat – for added flavor and texture.

By following these simple tips and using quality ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious Paula Deen Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers that’s sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special!

Enjoy Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole with Ritz Crackers

And there you have it! This Paula Deen-inspired chicken casserole, topped with buttery Ritz crackers, is ready to warm your heart and your tummy.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Add your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or spices to customize the flavor.

Ready to dive into more delicious recipes? Check out our collection of comforting casseroles and classic Southern dishes.