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
Scale
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
