Introduction
Looking for a dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor? This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole lives up to its name—every bite tastes like a million bucks! Combining tender chicken, a creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and buttery Ritz crackers, this casserole is pure comfort in every forkful.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this recipe is easy to make yet tastes decadent. Whether you’re craving a hearty weeknight meal or need a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this casserole delivers. Let’s dive into why it’s a must-try and how to make it perfectly every time!
Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Here’s why this dish is worth every bite:
Rich & Creamy – A luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar creates an irresistible sauce.
Crunchy & Buttery Topping – Buttery Ritz crackers add the perfect crispy contrast.
Loaded with Flavor – Bacon, garlic, and herbs take this casserole to the next level.
Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and one-dish baking.
Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
How to Make the Best Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Follow this foolproof step-by-step guide for a perfect casserole every time.
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Cook the chicken – Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or bake/shred 2 large chicken breasts.
- Crisp the bacon – Cook 6 slices until crispy, then crumble for topping.
Pro Tip: Save time by using pre-cooked bacon or leftover grilled chicken.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Filling
- Mix the base – In a bowl, combine:
- 8 oz softened cream cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Add cheese & chicken – Fold in 1.5 cups shredded cheddar and the cooked chicken.
Variation Idea: Swap in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for extra kick.
Step 3: Assembling & Baking
- Layer the casserole – Spread the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top with crackers & bacon – Crush 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers and mix with 1/4 cup melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole, then add bacon crumbles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Serving Suggestion: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overbaking – Can dry out the sauce; remove when bubbly and lightly browned.
Skipping the butter – The Ritz topping needs butter for maximum crispiness.
Using cold cream cheese – Soften it first for a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Underseasoning – Taste the filling before baking and adjust salt/pepper as needed.
FAQs About Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble (without baking), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 extra minutes to bake time.
Q: What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
A: Try crushed saltines, panko breadcrumbs, or even French fried onions for crunch.
Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Yes! Freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
Q: Can I add veggies?
A: Absolutely! Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Every Penny
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the definition of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Easy enough for weeknights yet impressive for guests, it’s a recipe you’ll make again and again.
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food
- Total Time: 50 mins
Description
Indulge in this rich and creamy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Packed with creamy cheese, tender chicken, and topped with a crispy crust, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and condensed cream of chicken soup. Mix until well combined.
Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken, milk, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crackers are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs over the top of the chicken mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
