Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made casserole, and this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe promises to be an unforgettable delight for your palate. With its rich, creamy flavors and simple preparation, this dish is a surefire winner for family meals or special occasions. Whether you’re a culinary novice or a kitchen pro, crafting this exquisite delight will leave both your taste buds and your loved ones thoroughly satisfied.

Growing up, Sunday dinners were a big affair in our family, and casseroles were a staple. My grandmother always had a way of sneaking something extraordinary into ordinary dishes, and this was no exception. The aroma wafting from the kitchen would draw us in, eagerly awaiting the lavish, decadent dinner that awaited. That first bite of the creamy casserole always felt like a culinary hug from her. It’s been a cherished recipe passed down in our family, always served with a sprinkle of nostalgia and love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a culinary treasure chest for several reasons:

• Simple Ingredients: Most items are pantry staples, meaning no last-minute shopping trips are needed.
• Time-Saving: With minimal prep, this dish is perfect for a quick family dinner or a busy weekday night.
• Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to cater to specific dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge, ready to pop into the oven when needed.

Ingredients Notes

Each ingredient plays a vital role in the harmony of flavors and textures in this dish. Here are some insights:

• Chicken: You can use either boneless breasts or thighs, or even a rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Cream Cheese: For best results, make sure it’s softened at room temperature before using.
• Sour Cream: Adds a perfect tangy contrast to the rich flavors.
• Ritz Crackers: Provides a deliciously buttery crunch; breadcrumbs can serve as a substitute.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3

Fold in cooked chicken chunks, ensuring they are well coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 4

Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly.

Step 5

Crush the Ritz crackers and sprinkle them generously over the top of the casserole. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Storage Options

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Variations & Substitutions

For a healthier twist, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with hearty vegetables like broccoli and mushrooms. Add spices like paprika or cumin for an extra kick of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a chilled glass of Chardonnay. Ideal for a family gathering or a comforting Sunday dinner with friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole the night before? Absolutely! Prepare it as directed, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Simply bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes before serving.

What sides pair well with this dish? Steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a simple tossed salad are excellent complements to balance the rich, creamy casserole.

Is this recipe gluten-free? Substituting gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs easily makes this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets without compromising on flavor.

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

This decadent chicken casserole combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a crispy topping that makes it feel like a million bucks. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks!

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 3 cups cooked chicken breast shredded
• ▢ 8 oz cream cheese softened
• ▢ 1 cup sour cream
• ▢ 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
• ▢ 1 cup mayonnaise
• ▢ 2 tsp garlic powder
• ▢ 1 tsp onion powder
• ▢ 1 tsp salt
• ▢ 0.5 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers for topping
• ▢ 0.25 cup melted butter

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
• Fold in the shredded chicken until well coated.
• Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
• In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
• Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a healthier version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and light mayonnaise.