If you’re looking for a sandwich that bursts with comforting, creamy flavors and tender chicken in every bite, then you absolutely must try this Shredded Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Ritz Cracker Spread Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that strikes the perfect balance between rich and simple, with shredded chicken cooked just right and a luscious Ritz cracker spread that takes the indulgence to the next level. Whether you whip it up in an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop, this sandwich is pure joy and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Shredded Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Ritz Cracker Spread Recipe couldn’t be easier. Each ingredient plays an essential role in delivering the ideal flavor, texture, and color that make this sandwich so crave-worthy.
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast: The tender, juicy foundation of the sandwich that shreds perfectly.
- 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup: This adds creamy richness and a comforting depth of flavor.
- 1 cup chicken stock: Keeps the chicken moist and helps create that luscious sauce consistency.
- 1 sleeve crushed Ritz butter crackers (about 1-1/4 cup): The secret to the creamy spread’s irresistibly buttery and slightly crunchy texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note to brighten the savory mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle, aromatic warmth to every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For a gentle kick and enhanced flavor complexity.
- Kosher salt (to taste): Balances all the flavors perfectly and elevates the whole dish.
How to Make Shredded Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Ritz Cracker Spread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
First, choose your cooking method: Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop. For an Instant Pot, combine chicken breasts, chicken stock, and condensed cream of chicken soup in the pot to infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks. Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 10 minutes, then carefully release the steam and shred the tender chicken right in the pot to keep all the juices.
Step 2: Mix in the Flavorful Ingredients
After shredding the chicken, stir in your crushed Ritz crackers, dried parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper directly into the pot or slow cooker. This step transforms the shredded chicken into a creamy and flavorful spread, with the Ritz crackers adding that distinct buttery creaminess and slight crunch that makes this sandwich so special.
Step 3: Let it Set for Perfect Texture
Once everything is combined, allow the mixture to rest for about 20 minutes. This gives the Ritz crackers time to absorb the sauce and thicken it to just the right consistency. If it feels a little too runny, add more crushed crackers. If it’s too thick, simply stir in a bit more chicken stock. This flexibility makes it easy to get the perfect texture every time.
Step 4: Assemble and Enjoy
Scoop the creamy shredded chicken mixture onto your favorite sandwich buns or rolls. The warm, juicy filling paired with the buttery Ritz cracker spread makes every bite an absolute delight. Serve hot for the best experience that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.
How to Serve Shredded Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Ritz Cracker Spread Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little freshness with crisp lettuce leaves or thin slices of crunchy pickles to complement the creamy richness. A sprinkle of extra parsley or chives on top adds a touch of color and an herbaceous pop that brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this sandwich with classic sides like crunchy coleslaw, a simple green salad, or crispy sweet potato fries. Each side adds a different texture and temperature contrast that enhances the overall enjoyment of the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or family, try serving the shredded chicken spread on mini slider buns for party appetizers or use it as a warm dip with crackers and fresh veggies. You can also add some sliced cheese and broil the sandwich briefly to create a melty, toasty variation that is pure comfort food bliss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover shredded chicken sandwich mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it super convenient to enjoy quick sandwiches or wraps even on busy days.
Freezing
This creamy Ritz cracker chicken spread freezes beautifully in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Add a splash of chicken stock if it’s thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick shortcut and works perfectly for this recipe. Just warm the shredded chicken with the soup, stock, and seasonings, then stir in the crushed Ritz crackers to get that creamy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Definitely. The recipe makes about 10 servings, making it great for family dinners, potlucks, or casual get-togethers where you want something easy, satisfying, and delicious.
Can I substitute the Ritz crackers?
While Ritz crackers are the star ingredient for that buttery creaminess, you could use similar buttery crackers if needed. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor might be slightly different, so adjust seasonings to compensate.
What buns work best for this sandwich?
Soft sandwich rolls, brioche buns, or even toasted hamburger buns all work wonderfully. Choose buns that can hold the moist filling without falling apart.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the Ritz crackers and canned soup. However, you could experiment with gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free condensed chicken soup to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Shredded Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Ritz Cracker Spread Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your home. It’s comforting, creamy, and packed with flavor — perfect for any occasion when you want a simple but unforgettable meal. So grab those ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy this cozy culinary hug in a sandwich today!
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Shredded Chicken Sandwich with Creamy Ritz Cracker Spread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
Description
This Shredded Chicken Sandwich recipe offers a creamy, savory filling made with tender shredded chicken, creamy condensed soup, and crunchy Ritz crackers for the perfect texture. Quick and versatile, it can be prepared using an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop, making it ideal for a comforting lunch or dinner. Serve piled high on buns for a hot, juicy, and flavorful sandwich.
Ingredients
Chicken and Soup Base
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 (10.5 ounce) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken stock
Seasonings and Thickeners
- 1 sleeve crushed Ritz butter crackers (about 1–1/4 cup)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Kosher salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Instant Pot: Place chicken breasts, chicken stock, and condensed cream of chicken soup into the Instant Pot. Seal the lid and ensure the vent is set to ‘sealed’ position. Set to manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Release Pressure and Shred: After cooking, manually release the pressure. Remove the chicken and shred it using forks. Leave the cooking juices in the pot.
- Combine Ingredients: Return shredded chicken to the pot, stir in crushed Ritz crackers, dried parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, and adjust kosher salt to taste.
- Set Mixture: Let the mixture rest for 20 minutes to thicken. Adjust consistency by adding more crushed crackers if too thin or chicken stock if too thick.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy shredded chicken mixture onto buns and serve hot and juicy.
- Slow Cooker Option: Place chicken breasts, 1/4 cup chicken stock, and condensed soup in slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours. Shred chicken, return to slow cooker, stir in crackers and seasonings, cover and cook another 30 minutes. Adjust thickness as needed.
- Stovetop Option: In a large skillet or pot, combine condensed soup, 1 cup chicken stock, and seasonings over medium-high heat. Add 2.5-3 pounds pre-shredded or rotisserie chicken. Warm through, then stir in crushed crackers. Adjust thickness with crackers or stock as necessary.
Notes
- You can adjust the thickness of the filling by varying the amount of crushed crackers or chicken stock.
- Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for quicker stovetop preparation.
- Serve on your choice of buns or rolls for an easy, crowd-pleasing sandwich.
- This recipe is highly adaptable for Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop based on your preferred cooking method.
- Kosher salt should be added last to adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
