Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole brings together a comforting combination of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a crispy topping that’s hard to resist. The dish is not only quick and easy to make but also perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or making ahead for busy days. The creamy base is complemented by the crunch from the Ritz crackers and the gooey, melted mozzarella. It's a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1⁄2 cup sour cream

• 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup

• 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers

• 1⁄4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream of chicken soup. Mix well until smooth.

3. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture, adjusting the seasoning to your preference.

4. Gently fold in the diced or shredded chicken into the mixture until well combined.

5. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour in the chicken mixture, spreading it evenly.

6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.

7. In a small bowl, mix together the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter until the crackers are well coated.

8. Evenly distribute the cracker mixture over the top of the casserole.

9. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.

11. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Rest Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a blend of your favorite vegetables for a vegetarian take on this casserole.

• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give the casserole a little heat.

• Cheese Options: Swap the mozzarella for cheddar or a cheese blend of your choice for a different flavor profile.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free crackers in place of the Ritz crackers to make the casserole gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then cook as directed.

• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great option for this recipe. Just shred the chicken and add it to the mixture.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can use any cheese you prefer, like cheddar or a cheese blend.

4. Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese alternatives to make it dairy-free.

5. How do I make the casserole less rich?

If you want to make it a bit lighter, reduce the amount of mayonnaise or sour cream, or swap out full-fat versions for lighter options.

6. Can I use a different type of cracker for the topping?

Yes, you can use any type of cracker for the topping, but Ritz crackers are ideal for their buttery flavor and crunch.

7. What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs perfectly with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

8. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. If you're unsure, you can check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

9. Can I freeze the casserole after baking?

It’s best to freeze the casserole before baking. Freezing it after baking can affect the texture, particularly the crackers.

10. What’s the best way to reheat the casserole?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven. To keep the topping crispy, cover the casserole loosely with foil while reheating in the oven.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is an easy-to-make, deliciously creamy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a comforting meal for the family, this casserole will be a hit. With a simple mix of ingredients, it comes together quickly and delivers unbeatable flavor and texture. Enjoy!