Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that combines convenience and flavor in one comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole stands out with its creamy texture and savory notes. With ingredients like chicken, cream cheese, and Ritz crackers, it’s not just easy to prepare but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You can even make it ahead of time, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal in no time.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy goodness and crunchy topping appeal to children and adults alike.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or reheat leftovers for an easy lunch.
- Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance, refrigerate, or freeze for later use without sacrificing taste.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of cheeses and spices creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To create this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cooking spray
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking dish: This size is perfect for even cooking and holding all the delicious ingredients together.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl ensures you can easily combine all the ingredients without mess.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder
For the Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed)
- 5 Tbsp butter (melted)
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken
2. 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
3. 1 cup cottage cheese
4. ½ cup sour cream
5. ¼ tsp garlic powder
6. ¼ tsp dried onion powder
7. 1 can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
Mix until well combined and spread evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In another bowl, combine:
1. Crushed Ritz crackers
2. Melted 5 Tbsp butter
Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Chicken Casserole!
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Serving Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is all about pairing it with the right sides and garnishes. This delicious dish can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
With a Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad – A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of dressing adds a refreshing crunch.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and parmesan cheese make for a classic side that complements the casserole well.
With Bread Options
- Garlic Bread – Toasted bread topped with garlic butter pairs beautifully with the creamy casserole.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your meal.
- Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the casserole.
With Rice or Quinoa
- Fluffy White Rice – A simple side that absorbs flavors and rounds out the meal.
- Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed option that’s both nutritious and filling.
How to Perfect Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
To ensure your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is nothing short of perfect, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – For added flavor and convenience, using rotisserie chicken saves time on preparation.
- Soften Cream Cheese First – Allowing cream cheese to reach room temperature makes it easier to mix into the other ingredients.
- Season Generously – Don’t shy away from adding more spices if desired; this enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Bake Until Golden Brown – Keep an eye on the top; it should be golden brown for that perfect texture.
- Let It Rest Before Serving – Giving your casserole a few minutes to cool helps it set, making serving easier.
- Experiment with Toppings – Feel free to switch up cracker types or add cheese for extra flavor on top.
Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its rich flavors.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting pairing.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the casserole.
- Grilled Asparagus – Lightly grilled asparagus brings freshness and a hint of smokiness to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is always a crowd-pleaser and easy to prepare alongside.
- Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans add sweetness and protein, making them a filling side choice.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach offers bright color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- ingredient measurement: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the dish. Always double-check your ingredient quantities for accuracy.
- not using cooked chicken: Ensure your chicken is pre-cooked before combining it with the other ingredients. Raw chicken will not cook properly in the casserole.
- neglecting to soften cream cheese: If the cream cheese isn’t at room temperature, it won’t blend smoothly. Let it sit out for about 30 minutes before starting.
- skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add garlic and onion powders; they enhance flavor. Adjust to taste for a more personalized touch.
- overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes. Overbaking can dry out the dish. Check for a golden crust around 30 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover casserole in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Use a freezer-safe dish or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet with a splash of milk, cover, and heat over low until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Million Dollar Chicken Casserole.
What makes Million Dollar Chicken Casserole so special?
The combination of creamy cheeses and rich flavors creates an incredibly satisfying dish that feels luxurious yet is easy to prepare.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just chop it up and mix it into the casserole.
Is Million Dollar Chicken Casserole kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy flavor and crunchy topping, making it a great family dinner option.
How do I customize my Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition or swap in different cheeses for varied flavors.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its creamy texture and comforting flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s a meal everyone will love!
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and creamy textures in a delightful dish. This easy-to-make casserole features tender chicken, velvety cheeses, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With just 10 minutes of preparation, this hearty meal is not only quick but also customizable to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or reheating leftovers for lunch, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Prepare it ahead of time for added convenience, and enjoy the satisfaction of a delicious homemade dinner that feels indulgent yet is simple to whip up.
Ingredients
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) unsalted cream of chicken soup
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed)
- 5 Tbsp butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF and lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and cream of chicken soup. Mix until well combined and spread evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle this mixture over the chicken layer in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
