Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy dish that your whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a fantastic meal that combines tender chicken with rich cheeses and a crunchy topping. It’s an easy recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is not only delicious but also super simple to prepare. With ingredients that you might already have at home, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. Plus, it’s filling and makes for great leftovers. I often find myself making it for family gatherings, and it always gets rave reviews!
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping, if desired)
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (or other buttery crackers)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream of chicken soup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the chicken mixture.
- Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crackers are evenly coated. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken casserole.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. If desired, sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top in the last 5 minutes of baking and return it to the oven to melt.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy dish with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Serve this dish warm right from the oven. It goes well with a refreshing salad or some steamed vegetables. Everyone will love the cheesy goodness!
How to Store Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- For extra flavor, add some chopped green onions or herbs like parsley to the chicken mixture.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Don’t skip the crunchy Ritz topping; it adds a nice texture!
Variation
Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or peas into the casserole to make it heartier. You can also try different types of cheese for a unique twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken for convenience, just drain it before adding to the mixture.
2. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.