Million Dollar Chicken Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy, and Totally Irresistible

If you’re looking for a classic comfort dish that never fails to impress, the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is your answer. This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful casserole has earned its name because of its rich taste and satisfying texture. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, this dish combines tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a buttery, crunchy topping for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Unlike ordinary casseroles, this recipe balances smooth creaminess with a crunchy topping made from crushed crackers and melted butter. The use of cottage cheese and sour cream adds a subtle tang that enhances the flavor without overwhelming it. Easy to prepare and full of comfort-food goodness, this casserole is a guaranteed hit every time.

Ingredients

For the casserole base:

• 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

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick and makes serving easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend until smooth and creamy. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped cooked chicken. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.

The cream cheese provides richness, while the cottage cheese and sour cream balance the flavors with a subtle tang. The cream of chicken soup adds both moisture and savory depth, making every bite flavorful and comforting.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. This forms the base of the casserole, which will be baked to create a warm, cheesy, and tender layer.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. This will create a golden, crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken base.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges. Baking allows the flavors to meld together while giving the topping a satisfying crunch.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve. Pair the casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, balanced meal.

Tips for the Best Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

1. Use freshly cooked chicken for maximum flavor, but leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
2. Room temperature cream cheese blends more easily, ensuring a smooth, creamy base.
3. Customize the topping by adding grated Parmesan or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.
4. Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a few hours in advance and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve for convenience.
5. Add extra vegetables like chopped broccoli, peas, or carrots for added nutrition and color.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use shredded chicken instead of chopped chicken?
Yes! Shredded chicken works just as well and gives the casserole a slightly different texture, which some people prefer.

Q2: Can this casserole be frozen?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed to heat through.

Q3: Can I use low-fat or reduced-fat cheeses?
Yes, but keep in mind that the casserole may be slightly less creamy. Full-fat cheeses provide the richest flavor and texture.

Q4: Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free crackers or substitute crushed gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

Q5: How do I prevent the topping from getting soggy?
Make sure the butter is thoroughly mixed with the cracker crumbs and that the casserole isn’t overcooked. The butter-cracker topping will bake to a crisp golden finish.

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Conclusion

The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort dish that combines creamy, cheesy chicken with a crunchy, buttery topping. Easy to prepare, family-friendly, and versatile, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet homey, guaranteed to impress your family and friends.