This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich and comforting dish that combines creamy chicken, gooey cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. It’s the ultimate family-friendly meal, perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is bound to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups buttery cracker crumbs (such as Ritz crackers)
4 tablespoons butter, melted
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup until smooth and creamy.
Stir in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
In a separate bowl, combine the cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated in the butter.
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Storage/Reheating
If I happen to have leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so good!), I store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps for about 3-4 days. When it’s time to reheat, I pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the topping is crispy again. I also enjoy reheating it in the microwave for a quick meal, but the oven really brings back that crunchy topping texture.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! I often make it ahead by preparing the casserole up to the point of baking. Then, I cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When I’m ready to bake, I just pop it in the oven for the same amount of time. If I’m in a hurry, I let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.
Can I use a different kind of cracker for the topping?
Definitely! While buttery crackers like Ritz are my go-to, you can use any type of cracker you prefer. I’ve used saltines and even crushed-up graham crackers for a different twist, and it’s always delicious.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this casserole. It’s a great time-saver and adds extra flavor, so I often go this route when I need a quicker dinner option.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, I simply swap the buttery crackers for gluten-free crackers. There are several delicious gluten-free crackers on the market, and they work just as well in this recipe.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If I’m in the mood for a little heat, I’ll add some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the topping for an extra kick.
Conclusion
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is an easy-to-make, incredibly delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy chicken base, combined with the crunchy cracker topping, creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special dinner with family and friends, this casserole will always be a hit.
Recipe:
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich and comforting dish made with creamy chicken, gooey cheese, and a buttery cracker topping, making it a perfect family-friendly meal for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups buttery cracker crumbs (such as Ritz crackers)
4 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated in the butter.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
Feel free to swap the buttery crackers with any cracker of your choice, or make it gluten-free with gluten-free crackers.
Rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe as a time-saving alternative.
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
