The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is aptly named because it tastes like a million bucks! Creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, this dish combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce and crispy topping for the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Topping:
- 1 cup Ritz cracker crumbs (about 1 sleeve)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. - Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. - Add the Chicken:
Fold in the cooked chicken until fully coated with the creamy mixture. - Assemble the Casserole:
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. - Make the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the Ritz cracker crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the casserole. - Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. - Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Mix in cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced green chilies or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds or omit the topping altogether.
Cooking Note
For extra creaminess, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make for a delicious lunch the next day.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Tips
- Cook Chicken Ahead: Use rotisserie chicken or cook and shred chicken breasts in advance to save time.
- Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 33g
- Sodium: 720mg
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, canned chicken can be used as a quick and convenient substitute. Just be sure to drain it well.
Can I make this casserole without the topping?
A: Absolutely! The casserole will still be creamy and flavorful without the cracker topping.
How can I lighten up this recipe?
A: Use reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. You can also swap out some of the cheese for low-fat alternatives.
Conclusion
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a buttery crunch on top. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a cozy dinner for your family, this casserole is sure to impress. Try it today and enjoy every bite of this indulgent dish!