This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish, packed with rich, creamy textures and a crunchy, buttery topping. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese creates a luscious filling, while the crushed Ritz crackers add the perfect crispy contrast.
Ideal for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal that feels indulgent but is simple enough for everyday cooking. Serve it with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 sleeve (about 1 cup) crushed Ritz crackers
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Fold in the shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the casserole.
- In a separate bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 375 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole – A Comfort Food Classic
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the perfect dish to try. This rich and creamy casserole combines shredded chicken with a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar, all topped with a buttery, golden Ritz cracker crust. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a special gathering, this dish will be a guaranteed hit.
Why Is It Called Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
The name “Million Dollar” isn’t just for show—it refers to how indulgent and delicious this dish tastes. The combination of creamy textures, cheesy goodness, and the crispy, buttery topping makes it feel like a luxurious meal, even though it’s made with simple, affordable ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that make you feel like you’re eating something truly special, without requiring hours in the kitchen.
What Makes This Casserole So Special?
This casserole stands out for a few key reasons:
- Rich, Creamy, and Comforting: The blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Every bite is packed with comforting flavors that make this dish feel warm and cozy.
- Crispy, Buttery Topping: The crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter add a crispy contrast to the creamy base, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Quick and Easy to Make: With only a few simple steps, this casserole comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Great for Meal Prep: You can make this dish in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready. It also reheats beautifully, making it a great option for leftovers.
- Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults love this dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and has a familiar, comforting taste that appeals to all ages.
How to Customize Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
One of the best things about this casserole is how versatile it is. You can tweak it based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ways to customize it:
- Add Vegetables: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Use a Different Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are a great combination, you can try Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little heat.
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or mix in some diced jalapeños to give it a little kick.
- Use a Different Protein: Instead of chicken, try shredded turkey or even cooked ground beef for a different take on this dish.
- Go Low-Carb: Skip the cracker topping and replace it with crushed pork rinds or a mix of grated Parmesan and almond flour for a keto-friendly version.
What to Serve with Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
This casserole is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a few side dishes can round out the meal perfectly. Here are some great options:
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted broccoli, green beans, or asparagus adds a fresh and healthy contrast to the creamy casserole.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the dish.
- Mashed Potatoes: If you love extra comfort food, serving this casserole alongside mashed potatoes makes for a hearty meal.
- Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy goodness from your plate.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this casserole stores and reheats beautifully.
- Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the fully assembled (but unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. If reheating in the microwave, cover with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.
Can You Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This is a great make-ahead dish, whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or preparing for a gathering. Assemble everything except for the cracker topping, then store it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to bake, add the crushed crackers and butter mixture, then pop it in the oven. This ensures that the topping stays crisp and fresh.
Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion
Whether you’re feeding a family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just looking for something easy and satisfying, Million Dollar Chicken Casserole fits the bill. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together—warm, cheesy, and full of flavor. It’s also adaptable, meaning you can make it as rich or as light as you like based on your ingredient choices.
Conclusion
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a true comfort food masterpiece. With its creamy, cheesy base and crispy, buttery topping, it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s easy to make, customizable, and great for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. If you’re looking for a go-to recipe that never fails to impress, this is the one. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation!