The Creamiest Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe Ever

Comfort food reaches new heights with this million dollar chicken casserole that promises rich, creamy satisfaction in every bite.

Layers of tender chicken blend seamlessly with a luxurious cream cheese sauce.

Crispy crackers create a golden, crunchy topping that adds delightful texture to each serving.

Weeknight dinners suddenly feel like special occasions when you bring this hearty dish to the table.

Cheese lovers will appreciate the perfect balance of melted goodness throughout the casserole.

Simple ingredients come together to create something truly extraordinary.

You’ll want to savor each delectable forkful and share this crowd-pleasing recipe with everyone you know.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of chicken in this recipe?

Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or even canned chicken. Just ensure the chicken is shredded and cooked thoroughly before mixing with other ingredients.

• Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 510 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

• What can I substitute for Ritz crackers in the topping?

Panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or another buttery cracker like Club crackers work great as alternative toppings. The key is to mix the crumbs with melted butter for that crispy golden texture.

Reasons to Try Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone from kids to adults will absolutely love, this casserole delivers pure satisfaction in every single bite.
• Minimal Prep Magic: Requires simple ingredients and straightforward mixing, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without complicated techniques or extensive kitchen skills.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Great for weeknight dinners, potlucks, family gatherings, or when you need a hearty dish that can feed multiple people without complicated preparation steps.
• Customize with Ease: Allows flexible ingredient swaps like using different types of cheese, adding vegetables, or switching protein to match your dietary preferences and pantry availability.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

• Shredded Chicken: A tender and flavorful base that provides the primary protein for the casserole.

• Cream Cheese, Sour Cream: These rich dairy products create a smooth and luxurious texture for the casserole.
• Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds extra moisture and depth of flavor to the chicken mixture.

• Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: These cheeses contribute a melty, gooey element with sharp and mild cheese flavors.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Pepper: These spices enhance the overall taste and provide a well-rounded seasoning profile.

• Ritz Crackers, Butter: The crushed crackers create a golden, buttery, and crunchy layer that adds texture to the casserole.

• Fresh Parsley: Provides a touch of color and a fresh herbal note to the finished dish.

Stepwise Instructions for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Create Creamy Chicken Mixture

• Shredded chicken
• Cream cheese
• Sour cream
• Cheddar cheese
• Mozzarella cheese
• Cream of chicken soup
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Stir all ingredients until they are thoroughly blended and create a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 3: Spread Chicken Mixture

Transfer the creamy chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Prepare Crunchy Topping

In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crackers are completely coated.

Step 5: Add Cracker Topping

Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the top of the chicken casserole, creating an even layer of crunchy goodness.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Look for signs of bubbling around the edges and a golden-brown cracker topping.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy the rich, creamy, and crunchy flavors of this delightful chicken casserole.

Cooking Tips for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

• Opt for rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor without additional prep work.
• Swap Ritz crackers with gluten-free alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
• Enhance the dish's nutrition by adding frozen mixed vegetables like peas or broccoli to the chicken mixture.
• Use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream to create a lighter version of this creamy casserole.
• Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake, perfect for meal prepping or busy weeknights.

Flavor Variations for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

• Low-Carb Cauliflower Casserole: Replace Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds and swap chicken for cauliflower florets to create a keto-friendly version.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable cream of mushroom soup for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Friendly Option: Use gluten-free crackers or almond flour crumbs instead of Ritz crackers and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Spicy Mexican-Style Variation: Add diced green chiles, swap some cheddar for pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle taco seasoning into the chicken mixture for a zesty southwestern flavor profile.

Pairings to Complement Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

• Cozy Family Dinner Delight: Serve this hearty casserole as a comforting main dish with steamed green beans or roasted broccoli for a balanced meal.
• Potluck Party Pleaser: Bring this crowd-pleasing casserole to gatherings, keeping it warm in a slow cooker or insulated carrier for easy transportation and serving.
• Game Night Favorite: Cut into smaller portions as an appetizer, pairing perfectly with crisp green salad or quick pickles for a satisfying game day spread.
• Leftover Magic: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick lunch, or transform remaining casserole into a delicious wrap filling with fresh tortillas.

Storing Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Properly

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer the casserole to a freezer-safe dish with a tight-fitting lid and freeze for up to 2-3 months for longer storage.
• Reheat refrigerated casserole in the oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent the topping from burning and ensure even heating.
• Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, then warm in the oven until heated through completely and the internal temperature reaches 165F.

Irresistible Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Million dollar chicken casserole blends creamy textures with comforting Southern flavors. Cheesy layers and crispy topping make this dish a crowd-pleasing classic you’ll want to savor again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breasts (shredded or diced)

Cheese and Dairy:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings and Other Ingredients:

• 1 (10.5 ounces/298 grams) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 350F and lightly coat a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Blend shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, both cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, cream of chicken soup, garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly incorporated.
3. Transfer the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an even distribution across the surface.
4. Crush Ritz crackers and combine with melted butter in a separate bowl, creating a golden, crispy topping.
5. Generously scatter the buttery cracker crumbs over the chicken mixture, covering the entire casserole surface.
6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, watching for a bubbling texture and a golden-brown cracker crust.
7. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 3-5 minutes, helping the ingredients set and cool slightly.
8. Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added fresh herb flavor before serving.

Notes

• Soften cream cheese at room temperature beforehand for smoother mixing and easier blending with other ingredients.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut that saves preparation time and adds extra richness to the casserole.
• Swap regular crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour crackers to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium cream of chicken soup and controlling added salt, making the recipe heart-healthier without compromising taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 420 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg