Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a soul-satisfying comfort food that brings the wow-factor to your table, Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is it! Creamy, cheesy, loaded with tender chicken and topped with a buttery golden crust, this recipe somehow walks the line between nostalgic classic and special-occasion treat. Every bite is rich and delicious, with a flavor that feels as luxurious as the name suggests. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner for friends or just need a family favorite that’s guaranteed to get rave reviews, Million Dollar Chicken Casserole never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how easy this show-stopping casserole is to put together—the ingredient list is short, but every single component pulls its weight in making the dish ultra-creamy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. Here’s what makes Million Dollar Chicken Casserole shine:
- Cooked shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe especially quick, or use leftover roast chicken for deeper flavor.
- Cream cheese (softened): This brings a lush, creamy texture, so be sure to let it soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Sour cream: Adds a delightful tang and extra creaminess—Greek yogurt works in a pinch if that’s what you have.
- Cream of chicken soup: The secret to the casserole’s silky body and savory depth of flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Just a bit for a touch of richness and smoothness that ties the base together beautifully.
- Garlic powder: Balances the creamy elements with a punch of flavor—don’t skip it!
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory character without needing to cook or chop onions.
- Salt: Everyday seasoning that brightens all the flavors—taste as you go if you’re sensitive to saltiness.
- Black pepper: Adds warmth and a subtle kick.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the casserole for gooey, cheesy goodness (sharp cheddar brings extra flavor!)
- Buttery crackers (like Ritz), crushed: The signature topping—be generous! It adds the essential crunch to every mouthful.
- Melted butter: Binds the cracker topping and gives you that golden, craveworthy crust.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a swipe of butter so nothing sticks—this step guarantees easy serving later (and barely any cleanup).
Step 2: Blend the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until you have a perfectly smooth and creamy mixture. This is the secret to the luscious “million dollar” texture—take your time until no lumps remain!
Step 3: Fold in Chicken and Cheese
Now it’s time to add in the protein: Fold the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese directly into your creamy base. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated and every bit gets a good amount of cheese. It should look ultra creamy and loaded—just the way it should be.
Step 4: Spread It Out
Gently spoon the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out with a spatula to ensure an even layer. Try to get it all the way to the edges, so every serving is packed with chicken and cheese.
Step 5: Make the Buttery Topping
In a small bowl, combine your crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter, stirring until every crumb is glossy and coated. This crispy topping is a signature move in the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole—don’t skimp for best results!
Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole, covering every inch. Bake it for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so everything sets perfectly and those creamy layers stay put on your spoon.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
For a bit of fresh flair, sprinkle on chopped parsley or a handful of sliced green onions just before serving. A light dusting of extra cheddar cheese or even some crispy cooked bacon really takes Million Dollar Chicken Casserole into “over-the-top” territory—your guests will ask for your secret!
Side Dishes
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is hearty on its own, but it absolutely loves a little support from classic sides. Think steamed green beans, a tossed salad, or roasted broccoli for freshness and color. For those craving comfort, serve it with fluffy mashed potatoes or warm, buttered rolls—perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate a weeknight by baking the casserole in individual ramekins—guests will adore the single-serving presentation. If you’re hosting brunch, pile small scoops onto a toasted English muffin or split croissant for a decadent twist. Or turn leftovers into the ultimate next-day lunch by stuffing them into baked potatoes or wrapping up in tortillas for creamy chicken taquitos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Chicken Casserole will keep beautifully in the fridge, tightly covered or stored in an airtight container. It stays creamy and delicious for up to 3–4 days, making it a dream for meal-prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Prepare as directed, but stop before adding the cracker topping. Double-wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, top with fresh crackers and butter just before baking, and continue as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop leftover servings in a 350°F oven until warmed through (cover loosely with foil if you want to preserve the topping’s crispness). For a quick option, the microwave works too—just add a spoonful of water or broth and use a microwave-safe cover, reheating in short bursts to keep the chicken juicy.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, canned chicken is a great time-saver in a pinch! Just be sure to drain it well and break up any large pieces for even mixing. The flavor will be a bit milder but still perfectly tasty in Million Dollar Chicken Casserole.
What’s the best way to crush the crackers?
Place the crackers in a zip-top bag and roll over them with a rolling pin, or give them quick pulses in a food processor for super fine crumbs. Keep a little texture for crunch—or go all-out buttery crisp, your choice!
Can I make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and your favorite gluten-free crackers for the topping. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap with all the same comfort and flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely—you can sneak in sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or peas for extra color and nutrition. Just be sure to cook off excess moisture before folding them in, so you don’t water down that dreamy sauce.
How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
Look for a bubbling, golden brown top and a casserole that’s hot throughout. If you want to be sure, use an instant-read thermometer and check that the center is at least 165°F, especially if your chicken started out cold.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is more than just a simple family dinner—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that checks every box for comfort and ease. Whether you’re feeding a packed table or just treating yourself to something extra special, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Give it a try and see why everyone’s calling it “million dollar”—your next favorite is just a bake away!
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. With a rich and flavorful filling topped with a buttery cracker crust, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz), crushed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Fold in chicken and cheddar cheese.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture in the baking dish.
- Make the topping: Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add chopped cooked bacon or green onions for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
