There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a warm, cheesy casserole, and the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe truly lives up to its name by combining creamy textures, savory flavors, and a perfectly crispy topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. This dish is a family favorite because it brings together simple ingredients that transform into a rich and indulgent meal, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is easier than you think, and each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture in this delightful casserole.
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken: The hearty protein base that keeps this dish filling and comforting.
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature): Adds a luscious creaminess that binds everything together.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Brings moisture and a subtle tang for balanced richness.
- ½ cup sour cream: Enhances the creamy texture with a mild tang that livens up each bite.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup: The secret sauce that adds depth and warmth.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Introduces a gentle aromatics layer without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder: Complements the garlic and builds savory undertones.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed): For the irresistible buttery crunch topping that seals the deal.
- 5 Tbsp butter (melted): Binds the cracker crumbs and adds a golden richness on top.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF so it’s ready to go as soon as your casserole is assembled. Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray, which helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Base
In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and the cream of chicken soup. This mixture is where all that rich, comforting flavor comes together, so make sure everything is well blended for an even, luscious texture.
Step 3: Spread and Top
Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then, in a separate small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated. Sprinkle this golden, buttery topping evenly over the casserole to create that signature crispy, flavorful crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes until it’s bubbling and the cracker topping turns a beautiful golden brown. The smell filling your kitchen will be irresistible, and the texture will be a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives brighten up the casserole and add a pop of color that makes the dish look as good as it tastes. A sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar on top before baking is another lovely option for extra cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast, or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to keep the meal balanced. For a heartier meal, roasted potatoes or crusty bread are great companions to soak up any extra creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch perfect for dinner parties. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of fluffy rice or buttery pasta to turn it into a comforting bowl meal that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners when you’re short on time but crave a hearty meal.
Freezing
You can freeze the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe before baking for up to 3 months. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual. This makes it incredibly convenient for prepping in advance.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the casserole in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through and the topping crisps up again, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that delightful crunchy texture on top.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves prep time. Just chop it up and it’s ready to mix into the casserole base.
Is there a vegetarian version of Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe?
You can swap the chicken for cooked vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, or use a plant-based chicken substitute to keep the creamy, hearty feel while making it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free cereal, and use gluten-free cream of chicken soup to ensure the dish stays safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
What’s the best way to get a crispy topping?
Melted butter mixed with crushed crackers is the secret. Don’t skip the butter since it creates that golden sheen and crunch you expect from this dish.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the bake time as needed to ensure it heats through completely and the topping crisps up nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines warmth, flavor, and comforting textures like no other. It’s easy enough for weeknight dinners but special enough to share with friends and family. I promise that once you make it, this creamy, crunchy casserole will become a regular in your recipe rotation. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and dive into this deliciously satisfying dish today!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting baked dish featuring tender cooked chicken mixed with cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and flavorful seasonings. Topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, this casserole delivers a perfect balance of creamy texture and crispy topping, making it an easy and delicious meal for family dinners or potlucks.
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 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 for later.
- Mix the 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 unsalted cream of chicken soup. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a creamy mixture. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish to form a crispy topping.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken from a rotisserie, leftover chicken, or freshly cooked chicken breasts for ease.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute light cream cheese and sour cream.
- The topping can be customized with different crackers if desired, but Ritz crackers add a buttery flavor and crisp texture.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; add an additional 5–10 minutes to the baking time if chilled.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother consistency.
