When I make this meal, the aroma fills the whole house. This one's always a hit.

Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole is a beloved comfort dish that seems to have made its way into our family gatherings for generations. There’s something so heartwarming about pulling a bubbling casserole out of the oven, its golden cracker topping welcoming you like an old friend. This recipe was passed down to me from my mother, who got it from her next-door neighbor during a church potluck many, many years ago. It’s the kind of dish that transports you back to simpler times, where family and food were at the heart of every gathering. With its creamy, savory interior and crisp, buttery top, this casserole is perfect for those looking to experience a taste of true Midwestern hospitality.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad on the side to balance out the richness of the dish. Steamed green beans or buttery corn also make excellent accompaniments. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, consider serving it with a light pasta salad or garlic mashed potatoes. And don’t forget a good helping of cranberry sauce or applesauce to add a touch of sweetness to your plate.

Servings: 6

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve of Ritz crackers, crushed
1/4 cup butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the chicken breasts until fully done, then shred them using two forks.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well blended.

4. Add the shredded chicken to the mixture, stir to coat all the chicken with the creamy sauce.

5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crackers are evenly coated.

7. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of the chicken and creamy sauce.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

9. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.

If you want to change things up, you could add a handful of chopped vegetables like broccoli, peas, or carrots to the chicken mixture for added color and nutrition. For those who enjoy a bit of kick, a teaspoon of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce stirred into the creamy mixture can add some heat. Substituting the cheddar cheese with a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella and parmesan will result in a different yet delicious flavor profile. And for a more rustic twist, some folks like to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey instead of chicken – it’s a great way to use up those holiday leftovers!