The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is truly one of those dishes that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. As the name suggests, it’s a dish that feels like a million bucks without requiring a million-dollar budget. This creamy, cheesy casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, utilizing leftover or rotisserie chicken for a delicious and easy meal that the whole family will love. With rich ingredients such as cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar, every bite delivers an incredible wave of flavor that you won’t forget anytime soon.
This casserole not only tastes fantastic but is also incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting guests or just looking for a quick family dinner, this recipe can fit any occasion. The crunch of the Ritz cracker topping adds a delightful contrast to the creamy filling, making each mouthful a delightful experience. Plus, making this dish is a breeze—simply mix, toss in the oven, and wait for that delicious aroma to fill your home.
Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Easy Preparation: Only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time make this casserole a go-to dinner option.
- Comfort Food Classic: Rich and creamy, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug in food form.
- Versatile: Great for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken!
- Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
- Deliciously Cheesy: The blend of cream cheese and cheddar gives it a dreamy, cheesy flavor.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this delicious recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen for success. Gather all your ingredients and cooking tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a 9×13-inch baking dish (or any similar size), and measuring cups and spoons. Make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking while you prep your casserole.
Additionally, having a spatula and a mixing spoon handy will help you combine everything thoroughly. If you prefer a hands-on approach, keep a pair of cooking gloves nearby, especially if you’re handling shredded chicken. Organize your working space to make it comfortable and inviting; good music or a podcast can also make this preparation phase enjoyable!
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This is crucial as you’ll want to serve your casserole without any hassle.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated; the mixture will be thick, but don’t worry. Gently fold in the shredded chicken (and crumbled bacon if desired) until all the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the creamy chicken mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. It’s essential to make sure it’s spread smoothly to get even cooking and a delightful texture all around.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir until the cracker crumbs are fully coated and buttery. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the chicken casserole for that irresistible crunchy topping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and the topping has turned a beautiful golden brown. Be sure to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to get that perfect color!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. For an added touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness. Serve warm and watch as it disappears from your table!
Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for turkey or even rotisserie duck for a unique twist.
- Vegetables: Add in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Cooking Notes
- For a creamier casserole, increase the amount of cream cheese or sour cream.
- If using frozen chicken, ensure it is fully cooked before adding to the mixture.
- This dish is great for meal prep; it can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creaminess.
Tips
- For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- You can make this dish the day before and simply bake it when ready to serve.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approx. 400 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken for this casserole?
It’s best to use cooked chicken to ensure the casserole cooks uniformly and remains creamy.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge, then bake it when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use plain Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative that provides a similar texture and tangy flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a classic that never disappoints. Not only is it packed with flavor and creamy goodness, but it’s also incredibly simple to make, making it a perfect choice for any family gathering or busy weeknight dinner. Its versatility allows you to adapt it based on your preferences while still delivering that delightful comfort food experience. Try it out today; your taste buds will thank you! We encourage you to comment below with any variations you try or share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate good food.
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is truly one of those dishes that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- Transfer the creamy chicken mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir until the cracker crumbs are fully coated and buttery. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the chicken casserole.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. For an added touch, sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness.
Notes
This dish is great for meal prep; it can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 25 g