Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

There's something truly magical about the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. The creamy blend of cheeses, tender chicken, and buttery crackers creates a dish that feels luxurious but is surprisingly easy to make. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping for a busy week ahead.

I first discovered this recipe when searching for a way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken. After just one bite, my family was hooked, and it quickly became a weekly staple. If you're ready to enjoy a dish that tastes like a million bucks, let's dive in!

Why You'll Love This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Get ready to fall head over heels for this decadent yet simple casserole. Here's why it's sure to become your new favorite:

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can toss this dish into the oven and let it bake to golden perfection. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is foolproof.

Next, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, cheesy filling and crunchy topping appeal to kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at any gathering.

Budget-conscious cooks will love that it uses affordable, everyday ingredients. From shredded chicken to cream cheese and crackers, nothing in this dish will break the bank.

Finally, it’s versatile. You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or use up what you have on hand, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

If you’re as excited as I am, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this casserole so irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cooked chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here, saving time and adding flavor. If you prefer, you can use poached or roasted chicken breast instead. Aim for about 3 cups of shredded meat.
• Cream cheese: The base of this casserole’s creamy filling. Soften it beforehand for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and balances the richness of the cream cheese. Full-fat is best, but you can use light sour cream if you prefer.
• Shredded cheese: A blend of mozzarella and cheddar gives the perfect combination of melty goodness and sharp flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby.
• Ritz crackers: The buttery, crunchy topping that takes this casserole to the next level. Crumble them finely for even coverage.
• Butter: Helps crisp up the cracker topping, giving it that irresistible golden-brown finish.

If you have a 9x13-inch baking dish, you’re good to go. No other special equipment is needed!

How To Make This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Creating this casserole is as simple as mixing, layering, and baking. Let me guide you through the steps:

Step 1: Prep the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended. Fold in the shredded chicken, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.

Step 3: Add the Topping

In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery crumb mixture evenly over the chicken layer.

Step 4: Bake

Place the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning.

Step 5: Serve

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the layers to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve.

From start to finish, this dish takes just under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

Storage Options

This casserole stores beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.
• In the freezer: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To bake from frozen, add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating tips: For the best texture, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy topping. Microwaving is quicker but can make the crackers slightly soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is endlessly adaptable! Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Protein swaps: Try cooked turkey, ham, or even shredded pork for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian option: Use sautéed mushrooms and spinach in place of chicken. Add extra cheese to maintain the richness.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the Ritz crackers.
• Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Make it heartier: Stir in cooked pasta or rice before baking to turn this into a complete one-dish meal.

The beauty of this casserole is its flexibility, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole truly lives up to its name – a rich, satisfying dish that’s simple to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or saving leftovers for lunch, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.

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