Now that your Creamy Chicken Ritz Casserole is fully assembled, it’s time to bake it to golden perfection. This part of the recipe is where everything comes together—creating a creamy, bubbly filling with that irresistibly crispy, buttery cracker topping.
STEP 6: BAKE TO GOLDEN PERFECTION
Place the casserole dish into your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check for these signs that it’s ready:
- The top is golden brown and crispy.
- The edges are bubbling, meaning the filling is hot and creamy.
- You can smell the buttery, savory aroma filling your kitchen.
If you prefer an extra-crispy topping, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
STEP 7: LET IT REST AND SERVE
Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting time helps the filling set slightly, making it easier to serve.
For serving, use a large spoon to scoop out generous portions onto plates. This dish is best enjoyed warm, with all its creamy, crunchy goodness intact.
WHAT TO SERVE WITH CREAMY CHICKEN RITZ CASSEROLE
This casserole is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can make it an even more balanced meal. Here are some great options:
Vegetable Side Dishes
- Steamed broccoli or green beans – A fresh, light contrast to the rich casserole.
- Roasted carrots – Adds a hint of natural sweetness.
- A simple garden salad – Tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the flavors.
Starchy Sides
- Garlic mashed potatoes – Because more comfort food is always a good idea.
- Rice or quinoa – A neutral base that soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Dinner rolls or cornbread – Perfect for scooping up every last bite.
MAKE-AHEAD AND STORAGE TIPS
One of the best things about this casserole is how easy it is to prepare in advance. Whether you want to meal prep for a busy weeknight or bring it to a potluck, here’s how to make it ahead:
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Assemble the casserole as instructed but don’t bake it yet.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking.
- Bake as directed, adding 5 extra minutes to the cook time if it’s still slightly cold.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely because this casserole is so delicious), here’s the best way to store them:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How to Reheat
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
- To keep the topping crispy, reheat uncovered for the last few minutes.
TIPS FOR THE BEST CREAMY CHICKEN RITZ CASSEROLE
To make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips:
1. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience
If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It adds extra flavor and eliminates the need for cooking and shredding chicken yourself.
2. Get the Right Texture for the Topping
To make sure your topping is perfectly crispy, spread the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole. If you like it extra crunchy, try adding ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese to the topping.
3. Customize It to Your Taste
- Add a cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the filling for an extra cheesy version.
- Mix in chopped mushrooms, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.
- For a little heat, stir in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
4. Don’t Skip the Resting Time
Letting the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving helps everything hold together better when scooping it out.