Description
Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting one-dish meal featuring shredded chicken, tender rice, and a rich blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses. Topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, this casserole is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or potluck, delivering delicious flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Chicken and Rice: Fold the cooked chicken and cooked rice into the creamy mixture, stirring until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the combined chicken and rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for even cooking.
- Prepare and Add Topping (Optional): If using, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until coated, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and has a golden-brown top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- For a lower-fat version, substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
- You can swap white rice with brown rice for added fiber, but baking time may increase slightly.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
- The topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture to the creamy casserole.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
