1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the shredded chicken and 1 cup of cheddar cheese to the mixture. Stir until the chicken is well coated.
4. Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, stirring until the crackers are well coated.
6. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

As you prepare this dish, remember to savor the process. Cooking should be a pleasure, not a chore, and each step is a chance to bring a little love into the kitchen. I often recall Mama Lou’s advice to cook with intention, letting each ingredient shine.