Million Dollar Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
If you’re looking for a dish that will not only satisfy your hunger but also warm your heart, look no further than the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This creamy, cheesy delight is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. It combines tender chicken with a rich mixture of cheeses and a crunchy topping that makes every bite a joy. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!
A Personal Story Behind My Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Journey
This dish holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of family dinners at my grandmother’s house. She would whip up this casserole on chilly evenings, filling the home with delicious aromas that made our mouths water. Each spoonful was packed with love and comfort, making it a cherished recipe passed down through generations. It’s a dish that brings families together, creating lasting memories around the dinner table.
What Makes This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe Special?
What sets this casserole apart is its incredible blend of flavors and textures. The combination of cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream creates a creamy base that envelops the chicken, while the Ritz cracker topping adds an irresistible crunch. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even some crumbled bacon for an extra touch of flavor!
The Full Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) unsalted cream of chicken soup
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 5 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and cream of chicken soup. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined. This mixture should be creamy and smooth.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crackers are evenly coated. This will give your topping a delicious buttery flavor.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken mixture in the baking dish, covering it evenly.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
This casserole is delightful on its own, but there are many ways to elevate it! Serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked and crumbled bacon or diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the chicken mixture before baking. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious creamy goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions About Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves you time in the kitchen.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just ensure it’s fully cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Can I change the toppings?
Of course! While the Ritz cracker topping is a classic, you can experiment with breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even a layer of cheese for a different twist on this comforting dish.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 6
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4.5 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 10.5 oz unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 0.25 tsp garlic powder
- 0.25 tsp dried onion powder
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 5 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and cream of chicken soup. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crackers are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown.