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I stumbled upon this incredible Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe years ago and it's become my signature dish for family dinners. The name tells no lies this casserole is pure comfort food luxury combining juicy chicken cream cheese and a buttery Ritz cracker topping that makes everyone ask for seconds.
Why This Recipe Never Fails
This casserole has saved me countless times when I need a foolproof dinner option. The magic happens when all those creamy ingredients melt together creating this incredibly rich texture that my kids go crazy for. I love that I can prep it ahead which is perfect for those busy days or when company drops by unexpectedly.
Everything You Need
- Shredded Chicken: 4 cups, cooked and shredded, such as rotisserie or leftover chicken.
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened for a smooth blend.
- Cottage Cheese: 1 cup, for creaminess and added protein.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup, for tangy richness.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz), condensed for a creamy base.
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp, for subtle savory flavor.
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp, for depth of flavor.
- Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve, crushed for a buttery topping.
- Butter: 4 tbsp, melted, to bind the cracker topping.
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Kitchen Time
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Mix the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until well blended.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with crushed Ritz crackers, and drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Garnish with dried parsley, if desired.
Keeping It Fresh
This casserole stays delicious in my fridge for up to 4 days in a good container. Sometimes I make an extra one for the freezer it keeps perfectly for about 2 months. Just remember to let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. I always cover it with foil while reheating to keep all that creamy goodness from drying out.
What to Serve With It
My family loves this casserole with simple sides. I usually steam some green beans or toss a quick salad. When my husband comes home extra hungry I serve it over fluffy white rice or egg noodles. The garlic bread I make to go with it never lasts long everyone uses it to soak up the creamy sauce.
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Prep Now Enjoy Later
This recipe is my secret weapon for busy weeks. I often make it the night before when the kids are in bed. You can keep it in the fridge for a day before baking or freeze it for those really hectic times. Just let it come to room temperature before popping it in the oven and dinner is solved.
Mix It Up
My kitchen is like a test lab with this recipe. Some nights I toss in mushrooms or spinach. Last week I tried it with cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken and it was amazing. My daughter loves it when I add extra cheese on top sometimes mozzarella sometimes a bit of sharp cheddar. It always turns out great.
Worth Celebrating
Whenever I bring this casserole to a potluck or holiday dinner it disappears fast. There's something about that golden crunchy top and creamy filling that makes people feel special. I love watching faces light up when they take their first bite.
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Fresh and Light Sides
To balance out all that heavenly richness I always serve something light alongside. A bowl of lemony greens or some roasted veggies with herbs keeps everything in harmony. My summer tomato salad with vinaigrette works perfectly too.
Next Day Magic
The leftovers from this casserole make the best quick lunches. Sometimes I warm it up and stuff it in a wrap or pile it on a baked potato. My husband loves taking it to work the next day his coworkers always ask what smells so good.
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Tastes Rich Saves Money
This casserole proves you don't need fancy ingredients to make something special. I grab a rotisserie chicken when they're on sale and keep the other ingredients stocked in my pantry. It feeds my whole family and still has leftovers all while keeping our grocery budget happy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare this casserole ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just add the Ritz topping right before baking for the best results.
- → How long does this casserole keep in the freezer?
The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months when stored properly. Make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before baking.
- → What's the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe?
Using a rotisserie chicken is the quickest option. You can also boil chicken breasts or use leftover roasted chicken.
- → Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and replace Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds for a gluten-free version.
- → Why is cream cheese at room temperature important?
Room temperature cream cheese blends more smoothly into the mixture. If short on time, microwave it for 15-20 seconds to soften.
Conclusion
A delicious and easy chicken casserole that combines creamy cheeses, tender chicken, and a crispy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for family dinners and make-ahead meal preparation.