If you’re searching for a comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to wow a crowd, look no further than the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe. This hearty casserole brings together tender cooked chicken, creamy cheeses, and a buttery, crunchy cracker topping to create a dish that’s both indulgent and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining guests, this recipe blends simple ingredients into a reliably delicious meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role: from the creamy texture provided by the cheeses to the savory depth from the soup and spices, and the irresistible crunchy topping. Using quality staples ensures that every bite of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe delivers on comfort and flavor.
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken: Perfect for adding protein and a mild, savory base.
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Adds richness and a smooth creamy texture.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Offers a subtle tang and enhances the creaminess without overwhelming the dish.
- ½ cup sour cream: Contributes a lovely tartness that balances the richness.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: The secret sauce that holds all the flavors together.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Brings warm, savory notes to deepen the flavor profile.
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder: Rounds out the seasoning with a gentle umami hit.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed): Creates a golden, buttery topping that adds delightful crunch.
- 5 Tbsp butter (melted): Binds the cracker topping and adds that luscious buttery finish.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside. This simple prep will make cleanup a breeze and ensure your casserole slides out perfectly.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, dried onion powder, and the can of cream of chicken soup. Stir until everything is thoroughly blended, creating a creamy, savory mixture that forms the heart of the casserole.
Step 3: Layer the Mixture in the Dish
Spread this luscious chicken and cheese mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. This sets the stage for the crunchy topping that will finish the casserole with a satisfying contrast.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Cracker Topping
Combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter in a small bowl, stirring until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this buttery mixture generously over the chicken base, creating a golden crust that will bake into crispy perfection.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly. This final step melds all the flavors and textures together, making your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top to add a pop of color and a fresh note to this rich casserole. A light dusting of paprika can also add a bit of visual warmth and subtle depth.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables to balance the creaminess. Fresh steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad add a refreshing crunch that complements the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming presentation that’s perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, scoop it onto a plate alongside fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes for a comforting, complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for preparing in advance or enjoying delicious leftovers without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking by covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as usual. This is a fantastic timesaver for busy weeknights or when you want to prepare meals ahead.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through and the topping regains some crispness, typically about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that golden, crunchy topping intact and irresistibly delicious.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for the casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor, saving you cooking time while keeping the dish tender and juicy.
Is it necessary to use both cream cheese and cottage cheese?
Yes, the cream cheese provides a smooth, rich base, while the cottage cheese adds a subtle texture and tang that keeps the casserole from feeling too heavy.
Can I substitute another type of cracker for Ritz?
You can! Saltine crackers or buttery breadcrumbs make suitable alternatives, but Ritz crackers offer the best buttery, flaky texture for the topping.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free to adapt this recipe accordingly.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Try adding a teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken mixture or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the cracker topping for a gentle but delightful kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe that makes it a go-to comfort dish in so many homes. Its easy preparation, rich creaminess, and crispy topping combine in a way that feels both indulgent and deeply satisfying. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover why so many people keep coming back for seconds and thirds!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken combined with a rich blend of cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and seasoned cream of chicken soup. Topped with a buttery, crispy Ritz cracker crust, this casserole is a perfect hearty meal for family dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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 Dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix the Chicken Filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, dried onion powder, and the can of unsalted cream of chicken soup. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare and Add Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crackers are evenly coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling in the baking dish.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken from rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken for convenience.
- For a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Feel free to add vegetables like chopped celery or green onions into the chicken mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
