Description

This casserole recipe is the ultimate comfort food that brings together a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and a crunchy topping. While there are countless versions of casseroles, this particular dish stands out with its rich, savory layers that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It's a simple, satisfying recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Prepare to impress your loved ones with a casserole that's sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can of cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup of sour cream
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups of crushed Ritz crackers (or any buttery cracker)
• 4 tablespoons of melted butter
• 2 cups of steamed broccoli florets (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, and 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. For added texture and flavor, consider adding the steamed broccoli at this stage.

Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly in your prepared casserole dish.

Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Stir until the crackers are well coated with the butter.

Layer the Topping
Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the chicken filling, ensuring an even distribution for a crispy, golden top.

Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Add Final Touches
Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Tips and Conclusion

To enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole, consider adding a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper to the cracker topping for a subtle kick. You can also swap out the Ritz crackers for Panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture, or even mix some Parmesan into the topping for an extra savory layer.

This casserole recipe is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also ideal for feeding a large group. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or at a family gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. The creamy chicken base combined with the buttery, crunchy topping makes each bite irresistible. Don't forget to experiment with different ingredients—add vegetables or change up the cheese to make it your own. And the best part? It makes for great leftovers, so you can enjoy it again the next day!