Craving comfort food that tastes like a million bucks? This million dollar chicken casserole is the ultimate creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying dish that everyone will be raving about. With simple ingredients and a flavor that’s out of this world, you’ll want to keep reading to discover the recipe that turns an ordinary dinner into a five-star experience.
| Servings: | 6 |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Serving Size: | 1 portion |
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 cups crushed Ritz crackers
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to spray with a little neutral oil or butter just to prevent sticking.
- Make the creamy base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth to avoid lumps. Then stir in sour cream and cream of chicken soup. The mixture should be thick but smooth. A handheld electric mixer makes quick work of this step.
- Add the seasonings and cheese: Mix in the cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Do not skimp on the seasoning—it balances the rich dairy base beautifully.
- Fold in the chicken: Add the shredded chicken and gently mix until fully coated in the creamy sauce. You want every bite to have chicken and flavor.
- Spread into dish: Pour the chicken mixture into the greased baking dish and gently spread it into an even layer using a spatula.
- Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, stir the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. This topping gives the casserole its signature golden crunch.
- Add the topping: Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker crumbs over the casserole. Try not to press it down—let it sit lightly to toast up while baking.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the top is golden. The edges may get crispy and brown and that is when you know it is perfect.
- Finish and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set slightly. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for color and freshness just before serving.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
Description
Imagine sitting around a cozy dinner table with family, the scent of bubbling cheese and savory chicken filling the air. That is exactly the feeling Million Dollar Chicken Casserole brings to your home. Creamy, cheesy, tender, and comforting, this dish is like a warm hug after a long day. With a rich and luscious texture, it tastes like something you’d get at a fancy Southern potluck or a church dinner that had everyone coming back for seconds.
The name is no exaggeration—this casserole really does taste like a million bucks. Juicy shredded chicken is folded into a decadently creamy sauce flavored with sour cream and cream cheese. It is then topped with a buttery cracker crust that bakes up golden and crunchy. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of creamy richness and crispy topping. It is the kind of dish that makes kids run to the table and grown-ups sneak second helpings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a true weeknight warrior. It is incredibly easy to put together with pantry staples and a few simple ingredients. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or make it ahead for busy nights—either way, it is an absolute time-saver. Plus, it can feed a crowd or be portioned for meal prep.
This recipe is also very flexible. You can kick up the spice with a dash of cayenne or fold in cooked veggies like broccoli or peas for added nutrition. The flavors are indulgent enough to satisfy comfort food cravings while being easy enough for even beginner home cooks.
Serving and Storage Tips
To serve, scoop generous portions into bowls or alongside roasted vegetables and a simple green salad. It pairs well with fresh bread or steamed rice.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or cover with foil and warm in a 350 degree oven until heated through. To freeze, wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. You can also assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Course, Cuisine, Keywords
Main Course, American, casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, chicken recipes
Servings, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Serving Size
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: 1 portion
For extra flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan and do not skip the lemon zest. Leftovers keep well for 2 days in the fridge.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before shredding and adding to the casserole mixture.
Can I double this recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. You can double all ingredients and bake in two separate 9×13 inch pans or one large roasting pan. Add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the bake time and keep an eye on the topping.
Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with olive oil and use dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream. A vegan cream of chicken soup or alternative creamy soup will work in place of the canned version.
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.5 cups crushed Ritz crackers
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Mix until smooth.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and mix until everything is fully coated.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until coated.
- Evenly sprinkle the cracker topping over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
