Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that balances convenience and taste. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Packed with creamy goodness and topped with crunchy Ritz crackers, it truly tastes like a million bucks!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this casserole comes together quickly.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese, cottage cheese, and chicken creates a rich and savory taste that everyone loves.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect for dinner parties, potlucks, or even as a comforting family meal on chilly nights.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer, making dinner planning easy.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and crunchy topping are sure to please picky eaters of all ages.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Cooking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×9-inch baking dish: Ideal size for even cooking and perfectly portioned servings.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Cooking spray: Prevents sticking, ensuring your casserole comes out easily.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4- oz cream cheese, (room temperature)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder
For the Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, (crushed)
- 5 Tbsp butter, (melted)
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350ºF. While it’s heating up, lightly spray your 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Chopped cooked chicken
2. Cream cheese
3. Cottage cheese
4. Sour cream
5. Garlic powder
6. Onion powder
7. Cream of chicken soup
Stir until all ingredients are well combined. Then spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cracker Topping
In another bowl, mix:
1. Crushed Ritz crackers
2. Melted butter
Once combined, sprinkle this mixture generously over the chicken mixture in your baking dish.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly on top.
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is sure to become a staple in your home! Enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.
With Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes complements the richness of the casserole.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy Caesar dressing adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken casserole.
Accompanied by Bread
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the casserole.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls provide a comforting side that pairs well with this hearty dish.
Topped with Extras
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess and tang.
- Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions give a pop of color and mild flavor that brightens the dish.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots complement the savory notes of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole.
How to Perfect Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
To ensure your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Cooked Chicken: Start with pre-cooked chicken to save time and ensure even cooking throughout.
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
- Season Generously: Adjust seasonings to taste; feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for additional flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole while it bakes; overbaking can dry it out. Aim for a golden top.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely for serving.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different toppings, like shredded cheese or crushed chips, for a unique twist.
Best Side Dishes for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair beautifully with the richness of the casserole.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast and adds texture to your plate.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a delightful sweetness that balances out savory flavors.
- Green Beans Almondine: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with almonds add elegance and extra nutrition.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables offers a nutritious, protein-packed option alongside the casserole.
- Baked Zucchini Fries: Crispy baked zucchini fries are a fun way to include more veggies in your meal while keeping it kid-friendly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Measurement Errors: Not measuring ingredients correctly can throw off the balance of flavors. Always use precise measurements for cheese and chicken.
- Skipping the Cream Cheese: Failing to soften cream cheese before mixing can result in lumps. Ensure it’s at room temperature for a smooth blend.
- Overbaking: Leaving the casserole in the oven too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and check for a golden crust around the 30-minute mark.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to add garlic and onion powders can make your casserole bland. Always season your mixture well for full flavor.
- Wrong Container Size: Using an incorrect baking dish can affect cooking time and texture. Stick to a 9×9-inch dish for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make sure to cool it completely before storing.
Freezing Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines chicken, cheeses, and a crunchy topping. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Can I customize the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Yes! You can add veggies like broccoli or spinach, or substitute different cheeses based on your preferences.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, use gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz crackers.
How long does it take to prepare?
Prep time is around 10 minutes, and bake time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making this a quick meal option.
Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it appealing to kids while being nutritious for them as well.
Final Thoughts
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole offers comfort food at its finest with its creamy goodness and crispy topping. It’s versatile enough to adapt with various ingredients based on what you have on hand. Try this recipe and enjoy its delightful flavors any night of the week!
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that seamlessly combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a delightful crunchy topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With a blend of tender chicken, rich cream cheese, and a crispy Ritz cracker topping, this casserole is sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Serve it at potlucks or cozy dinners, and watch it become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4 oz cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder
- 1 sleeve crushed Ritz crackers
- 5 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and cream of chicken soup. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the chicken mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
