Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving pure comfort wrapped in a creamy, cheesy embrace, look no further than Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This rich and satisfying bake layers tender chicken, flavorful cheeses, and a buttery cracker topping for the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Every bite is warm, golden, and loaded with irresistible flavors, making it a hands-down favorite meal when you want something both simple and a little bit special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish is in how everyday ingredients come together to deliver restaurant-level flavor. Each one matters: from the velvety dairy base to the crisp cracker crust, they all play a role in making the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole unforgettable.

• Cooked chicken (3 cups, shredded or diced): Rotisserie chicken makes prep speedy, and it soaks up all that creamy flavor.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): This creates the rich, lush body of the casserole.
• Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a subtle tang and keeps everything smooth and scoopable.
• Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Ensures extra silkiness and flavor depth—trust me, don’t skip it!
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Brings a gentle savoriness that doesn’t overpower.
• Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor, making each bite cozy.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives the perfect whisper of warmth.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and lifts all the other ingredients.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts into gooey perfection and brings sharpness.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Offers extra nuttiness and a savory punch.
• Ritz crackers (1 sleeve, crushed): The golden, buttery crown every casserole dreams of.
• Melted butter (4 tablespoons): Binds the cracker topping and bumps up flavor.
• Chopped parsley (2 tablespoons, optional): A burst of green that adds freshness and color to finish.

How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and give a 9×9-inch baking dish a light coating of nonstick spray or a touch of butter. This step is quick but important, making sure your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole lifts out easily and bakes evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Beat everything together until the mixture is smooth and luxuriously creamy. This will be the foundation that brings all the flavors to life.

Step 3: Fold in Chicken and Cheese

To your creamy base, gently add the shredded (or diced) cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well until every piece of chicken is coated with the rich, cheesy mixture, ensuring every bite of casserole is packed with flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chicken and cheese mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even bake—this ensures the whole dish has that delectable creamy-to-crispy ratio.

Step 5: Make the Cracker Topping

In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, mixing until all crumbs are buttery and golden. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the casserole, covering the creamy filling completely for that signature Million Dollar Chicken Casserole crunch.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden, bubbly, and impossible to resist. The aroma will let you know you’re almost there!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let it rest for a few minutes before finishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. This optional touch adds a pop of color and freshness, making the dish extra inviting.

How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Garnishes

A finishing flourish of chopped parsley always brightens up the creamy, golden top. If you like a bit of zip, try thinly sliced green onions or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for gentle heat. Serve hot and fresh out of the oven for the most delicious results.

Side Dishes

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole shines with simple sides. Think steamed green beans, a crisp mixed salad, or buttery dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. Mashed potatoes or roasted veggies also pair beautifully if you want to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Scoop hearty portions into individual ramekins for a dinner party or holiday table. For a fun family twist, serve over fluffy rice or egg noodles. You can even bake the casserole in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, golden presentation that goes straight from oven to table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with foil or pack individual servings in airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, Million Dollar Chicken Casserole will keep beautifully for up to four days without losing its rich flavor or creamy texture.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Million Dollar Chicken Casserole! Assemble the dish but hold off on baking; wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to three months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before baking fresh. Even after freezing, the flavors meld deliciously with no loss of quality.

Reheating

Reheat single portions in the microwave for a quick lunch, or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until thoroughly heated and bubbly. If needed, add a bit of extra cheese or a drizzle of cream to revive any lost creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for this recipe since it brings loads of flavor and cuts way down on prep time. Simply shred or dice and proceed as instructed.

Can I make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole gluten-free?

You can! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free buttery crackers for the Ritz, and double-check that all other ingredients comply with gluten-free requirements. The result is every bit as creamy and flavorful.

What vegetables can I add to this casserole?

It’s easy to add thawed frozen peas, sautéed spinach, or even finely chopped broccoli or bell peppers. Stir them in with the chicken and cheese mixture before baking for extra color and nutrients.

Can Million Dollar Chicken Casserole be assembled ahead?

Definitely. Assemble up to the cracker topping, cover tightly, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the cracker topping, then bake as directed for maximum crunch.

Does this casserole freeze well after baking?

Yes, cooked Million Dollar Chicken Casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, portion as desired, and freeze in airtight containers. Reheat gently for a quick and satisfying meal any night of the week.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around the table for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole—a classic that’s both creamy and golden-crisp, pleasing everyone from picky kids to discerning grown-ups. Try it soon, and let this dish earn a prized place in your own rotation of comfort food favorites!

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