Description
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs chicken tenderloins: The star of the dish, chicken tenderloins are tender and cook quickly, ensuring a juicy result. You can substitute them with diced chicken breast if preferred.
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup: This ingredient adds creaminess and depth of flavor to the casserole, binding all elements together in a delicious mix.
- 1.5 cups sour cream: Provides richness and a slight tang that complements the ranch seasoning beautifully. For a lighter version, you can opt for Greek yogurt.
- 1 oz ranch seasoning packet: This prepackaged mix is an essential component that introduces the distinctive ranch flavor. If you prefer, you can make your own mix using dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder.
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese: Offers a creamy, cheesy layer that enhances the flavor profile. Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a different taste.
- 40 crushed Ritz crackers: These add a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. You can replace them with crushed gluten-free crackers if you need a gluten-free option.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your casserole cooks evenly.
- Prepare the baking dish: Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking. This will make serving the casserole much easier.
- Mix the creamy mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine 10.5 oz of cream of chicken soup, 1.5 cups of sour cream, and the 1 oz ranch seasoning packet. Stir in 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Layer the chicken: Spread 2 lbs of chicken tenderloins evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Ensure that the chicken pieces are uniformly distributed for even cooking.
- Add the creamy mixture: Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are covered. This mixture will help cook the chicken while adding flavor.
- Top with crackers: Evenly sprinkle 40 crushed Ritz crackers over the top of the casserole. This will create a deliciously crunchy topping when baked.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by ensuring that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool before serving. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side of rice or a fresh salad!