Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser that is creamy, comforting, and downright addictive, look no further than this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, luscious cheeses, and a buttery, crunchy topping that comes together quickly and makes every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, this casserole is bound to earn rave reviews and become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, creamy texture, and that irresistible golden crust. These essentials combine to create a dish that tastes like a million bucks while keeping your prep straightforward and fuss-free.
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken: The hearty, protein-packed base that makes this casserole so satisfying.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature): Adds rich creaminess and helps bind the casserole together smoothly.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Brings moisture and a tangy touch that balances the richness perfectly.
- ½ cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess and offers a subtle, pleasant acidity.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup: Provides classic savory flavor and keeps the casserole moist.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a gentle garlic aroma without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon dried onion powder: Adds depth and a mild sweetness to the flavor profile.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed): Creates a buttery, crispy topping that is pure comfort food perfection.
- 5 tablespoons butter (melted): Binds the cracker topping and delivers a golden, crunchy finish.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly after baking. This step sets the stage for a hassle-free cooking experience.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Filling
Combine the chopped chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and cream of chicken soup in a large bowl. Stir everything thoroughly until it’s smooth and well-blended. This mixture is the heart of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe—it’s creamy, flavorful, and comforting all at once.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Even layering here ensures every scoop has that perfect balance of creaminess and chicken goodness.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery topping generously over the chicken mixture, covering it completely. This crunchy topping will bake into a golden crust that adds an amazing textural contrast to the creamy base.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top. The aroma filling your kitchen during this time is sure to build anticipation because you’re in for an incredible meal.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a pop of color and fresh flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top right before serving. These green touches brighten up the rich dish and make it look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple, light sides to balance the richness. Consider a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted seasonal vegetables for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress it up for guests, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites a zesty squeeze that beautifully cuts through the creamy casserole. It also works great as a hearty filling for a warm wrap or sandwich the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days and remain flavorful and moist.
Freezing
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare the dish as instructed, cover it securely with a double layer of foil or freezer wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven until warmed through—usually about 20 minutes. Cover loosely with foil to prevent the topping from burning. Alternatively, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave, though the topping will lose some crispness.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut—it’s already cooked and seasoned, which adds extra flavor and saves you time.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the Ritz crackers with a gluten-free cracker variant or crushed gluten-free cornflakes to keep that crunchy topping without gluten.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Chopped broccoli, peas, or mushrooms can be stirred into the filling for added nutrition and color. Just be mindful of moisture content to keep the casserole from becoming too watery.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer homemade, you can use a simple roux-based cream sauce made with chicken broth, milk, butter, and flour. This gives you control over sodium and flavor.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe comfortably serves 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or small gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is truly a gem—simple, rich, and satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, easy enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for company. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly encourage you to give it a go; it just might become your new go-to comfort food classic.
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 to 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken blended with rich cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and creamy soup, topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers for a crispy finish. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner or potluck, delivering satisfying flavors in a single dish.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 5 Tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then set it aside for later.
- Mix the Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, dried onion powder, and the can of unsalted cream of chicken soup. Stir until everything is well incorporated and evenly mixed.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared 9×9-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
- Prepare the Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are thoroughly coated with butter.
- Add Cracker Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs evenly over the chicken mixture, covering the surface entirely. Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken from leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly into the mixture.
- For a crispier topping, you can broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- This casserole can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
- Substitute low-fat dairy products for a lighter version, though texture and richness may vary slightly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 to 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
