If you’re on the hunt for a comfort dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This casserole brilliantly combines tender shredded chicken with a luscious creamy mixture, all topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust that’s simply irresistible. It’s hearty enough to satisfy a family dinner yet easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight, making it a beloved classic that deserves a prime spot in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe plays a vital role, from the creamy cheeses that add richness to the Ritz cracker topping that delivers that perfect crispy texture. The combination is simple but creates layers of flavor and comforting vibes that everyone will adore.
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped: This is the hearty base, providing tender protein that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds a smooth, velvety texture that makes the casserole luxuriously creamy.
- 1 (10 ¾ oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup: Brings savory depth and a classic, comforting flavor.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Offers a subtle tang and light texture to balance the richness.
- ½ cup sour cream: Enhances creaminess with a slight tang that brightens the dish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mellow garlic aroma without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and complements the garlic perfectly.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crumbled: Creates that coveted crunchy golden topping that makes this casserole a star.
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted: Binds the cracker topping and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F and prepping a 9×9 baking pan with cooking spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out with ease. This simple step starts your process off smoothly and prevents any last-minute scrambles.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, place your shredded or chopped cooked chicken. In a separate bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder until completely smooth and well blended. Then fold this luscious creamy mixture into the chicken, making sure every bit of chicken is coated in that dreamy sauce. This combination is the heart of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe’s rich, comforting appeal.
Step 3: Assemble Casserole
Pour your creamy chicken mixture into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. In a small bowl, combine your crumbled Ritz crackers with the melted butter, mixing gently so every cracker is coated. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create that signature golden, crispy crust that lifts the whole dish to the next level.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Bake uncovered for 40 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbling around the edges. This baking step is where all the flavors meld and the casserole develops its irresistible crunchy crust, creating a perfect harmony in every spoonful.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, let it sit just for a few minutes before serving so it can set slightly. This tiny wait helps it hold together better when scooped, ensuring every portion looks as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of sliced green onions or chopped fresh parsley gives a pop of color and a fresh bite that beautifully cuts through the creaminess. These simple garnishes add an inviting touch that makes the dish feel extra special on the dinner table.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even a light fruit salad to balance the richness. Feel free to add dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins sprinkled with extra cracker crumbs for a personal touch. Alternatively, layer it in a clear glass casserole dish for a beautiful display that shows off the creamy chicken and golden crust layers — guaranteed to impress guests or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a fantastic choice for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole both before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn; it will keep for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. For already baked leftovers, wrap well and freeze for up to 1 month, though the texture of the cracker topping may soften slightly upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave for convenience, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 325°F covered with foil to prevent the topping from burning. Remove the foil in the last 5-10 minutes to crisp the topping back up, returning that signature crunch to the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Absolutely! While cottage cheese adds a mild tang and texture, you can substitute ricotta or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile and texture. Just keep in mind it may slightly change the creaminess and taste.
Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly here and can actually save you a lot of time. Just shred it up and you’re good to go with the same delicious results.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Definitely! Swap out the Ritz crackers for gluten-free crackers or crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs. The texture might vary a bit, but the flavor will still shine through beautifully.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
You can make your own quick substitute using chicken broth, a little flour or cornstarch, and some milk to thicken, seasoning it well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This will maintain the creamy texture and chicken flavor without the can.
How spicy is the casserole?
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is wonderfully mild and creamy with subtle savory hints; it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages without any heat. You can add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you prefer a little kick!
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is undoubtedly one of those treasured dishes that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and your heart with happy memories. It’s simple yet decadent, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with minimal fuss. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a favorite go-to for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, and cream of chicken soup. Topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust and baked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect hearty meal for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 (10 ¾ oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crumbled
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Combine Creamy Ingredients: In a smaller mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, condensed cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir these together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Chicken and Creamy Mixture: Place the shredded or chopped cooked chicken into a large mixing bowl. Pour the combined creamy mixture from the smaller bowl into the chicken bowl. Stir thoroughly until the chicken is fully coated and everything is evenly mixed.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared 9×9 pan and spread it out evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crumbled Ritz crackers and melted butter. Stir well with a fork until the crackers are evenly coated with the butter.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture in the baking pan.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly throughout.
- Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and optionally garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley flakes. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting casserole.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for ease.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or smoked paprika to the creamy mixture.
- The Ritz cracker topping can be replaced with breadcrumbs if desired.
- This casserole reheats well and makes great leftovers.
- To reduce fat, use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
