Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you are searching for a comfort food classic that never fails to impress, look no further than the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe. This rich, creamy, and cheesy casserole combines tender cooked chicken with a heavenly blend of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and savory seasonings, all finished with a golden, buttery cracker topping and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want a crowd-pleasing meal that practically makes itself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtful ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in delivering layers of flavor, creamy texture, and that irresistible golden crust that makes this casserole unforgettable.

• Cooked chicken (2 cups): Choose diced or shredded for easy mixing and even chicken distribution throughout the casserole.
• Cream cheese (225 g, softened): Adds creamy richness and binds the ingredients together perfectly.
• Cottage cheese (240 g): Builds a mild tang and adds a subtle, creamy texture without heaviness.
• Sour cream (240 g): Brings a slight tang and wonderful creaminess, balancing richness beautifully.
• Mayonnaise (240 g): Enhances moisture and smoothness, creating a luscious base for the casserole.
• Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 298 g): Infuses classic savory flavor and helps bind the filling.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Offers gentle garlic warmth that complements the chicken.
• Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds a subtle depth without overpowering the mix.
• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste for balanced and enhanced flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (100 g): Sprinkled on top to add a sharp, nutty undertone under the crispy topping.
• Crushed Ritz crackers (1 cup, 80 g): Creates a buttery, crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy filling.
• Unsalted butter (225 g, melted): Binds the cracker crumbs and promotes a golden crust.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (120 g): Melts to a gooey, inviting layer on top, sealing in all the flavors.
• Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous pop of color and flavor when sprinkled on before serving.

How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 175°C. It’s important that the oven is fully heated before you bake so the casserole cooks evenly and develops its irresistible golden top.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream of chicken soup. Mix these together until you achieve a smooth, uniform mixture. This is where the creaminess of your casserole foundation comes from, so take your time to ensure it’s perfectly blended.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings bring out the savory nuances and give the casserole its signature flavor punch. Stir everything thoroughly and taste as you go to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.

Step 4: Fold in the Chicken

Gently fold in your cooked chicken pieces. Whether shredded or diced, make sure each bite will have delicious chicken coated in that rich, heavenly sauce. This step ensures the protein is evenly dispersed, making every spoonful a delight.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 33 x 23 cm baking dish so your casserole won’t stick and will come out easily once cooked. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the dish, smoothing the top so it bakes uniformly.

Step 6: Add the Parmesan Cheese Layer

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the entire surface of the chicken mixture. This layer adds a sharp, nutty flavor that really balances the creamy filling and sets the stage for the crumbly topping.

Step 7: Make the Cracker Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted unsalted butter. Toss until all crumbs are thoroughly coated. This buttery mixture is the secret to that ultra-crispy and crunchy top crust that makes this casserole a showstopper.

Step 8: Assemble the Topping

Evenly distribute the buttered cracker crumbs over the Parmesan layer ensuring nothing is left uncovered. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. This final layer will melt into a bubbly, golden blanket during baking.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is beautifully golden brown and you see the edges bubbling with creamy deliciousness.

Step 10: Let It Rest

Remove your casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set nicely, making it easier to cut and serve perfect slices without the filling spilling over.

Step 11: Add Fresh Parsley

If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top just before serving. It brings a lovely touch of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish.

How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a few red pepper flakes can add a burst of color and a subtle zing that complements the creamy richness beautifully. A drizzle of hot sauce or a side of tangy cranberry sauce can also elevate the experience wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This casserole is quite rich, so pairing it with fresh, light side dishes works perfectly. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, steamed seasonal veggies, or roasted asparagus add freshness and balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in ramekins or mini cast iron skillets—perfect for entertaining. You can also layer it in a casserole with sliced tomatoes on top before baking for added visual appeal and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Million Dollar Chicken Casserole can be stored neatly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well and the flavors actually deepen, making the next-day serving just as delicious.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until hot, or reheat the entire casserole in a 175°C oven covered with foil until bubbly and heated through, removing the foil at the end to crisp the topping again.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is actually a fantastic shortcut that adds flavor and saves time—you’ll have dinner ready faster without sacrificing taste.

Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?

This recipe relies heavily on dairy for its creamy texture, but you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese substitutes. Just be aware the texture and flavor might vary slightly.

What can I substitute for Ritz crackers if I don’t have them?

Crushed buttery crackers like saltines, buttery breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes can make excellent replacements, each bringing a unique crunch.

Can I prepare the casserole the night before and bake it the next day?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the refrigerator overnight. Bake just before serving to enjoy the freshest flavor and crispy top.

Is this casserole good for potlucks or gatherings?

It’s perfect! The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is known for being a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to transport, serves a good number, and is sure to disappear quickly.

Final Thoughts

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe has earned a special place in my heart — and I’m confident it will in yours too. The way the creamy filling blends effortlessly with that crunchy, cheesy topping is pure magic. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, it’s a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and smiles around the table. Give it a try soon, and prepare to be showered with compliments!

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