Introduction

This Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, creamy soup, and flavorful rice, it’s a satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.

The image shows a close-up of a white plate filled with a creamy layered dish. The bottom layer consists of soft, yellow, crumbly pieces. Above that is a thick, white creamy mixture with visible small chunks and green bits mixed in. A silver fork held by a woman's hand is lifting a bite from the plate, showing the creamy texture and some yellow crumbs sticking to it. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a hint of a red and white striped cloth under one side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups cooked and cubed chicken
6.9 oz box chicken Rice-A-Roni
1 cup sour cream
10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the chicken Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions, but use only 1 ¾ cups of water instead of the full amount to keep it creamy.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice mixture, cubed chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
Step 3: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
Step 4: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly on the edges.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting casserole!

Tips & Variations

For added crunch, top the casserole with crushed Ritz crackers mixed with a little melted butter before baking.
Try swapping sour cream for Greek yogurt to lighten the dish while keeping creaminess.
Add vegetables like peas, corn, or chopped broccoli for extra nutrition.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2 months and thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white plate filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, showing a thick layer of melted cheese mixed with small pasta pieces. The top layer is golden and crispy, with a rich orange color and slightly crunchy texture. A silver fork held by a woman's hand is picking up a scoop of the cheesy pasta, showing the soft, gooey melted cheese underneath the crispy top. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with a red and white striped cloth partially visible nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?

Yes, but be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients. Using leftover cooked chicken makes this recipe quicker and easier.

What can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can make a quick substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of flour and 1 tablespoon of butter, cooking it until thickened, or use another creamy soup like cream of mushroom for a different flavor.

Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

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5 from 51 reviews

Ritz Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines tender cooked chicken, flavorful chicken Rice-A-Roni, creamy sour cream, and savory cream of chicken soup. This casserole is seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a delicious, hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Author: Nora
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

3 cups cooked and cubed chicken
1 (6.9 oz) box chicken Rice-A-Roni
1 cup sour cream
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
Ritz crackers for topping (optional)
2 tablespoons butter for topping (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Rice-A-Roni mix: Follow the package instructions for the chicken Rice-A-Roni, cooking the rice and seasoning mix until tender and fluffy. Set aside once cooked.
Mix the casserole base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked Rice-A-Roni, cooked and cubed chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to blend all ingredients evenly.
Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Add optional topping: For a crispy crust, crush Ritz crackers and mix with melted butter; sprinkle this mixture over the casserole evenly.
Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Serve and enjoy: Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. This dish goes well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Notes

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Adding vegetables like peas or carrots can boost the nutritional content.
If you prefer a cheesier casserole, add shredded cheddar cheese on top before baking.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Ritz chicken casserole, chicken and rice casserole, easy chicken dinner, comfort food casserole, family meal, baked chicken and rice