When you need a comforting, creamy, and utterly delicious dish to feed your family or impress guests, look no further than the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This dish earns its name with rich, flavorful layers that taste like a million bucks, yet it’s surprisingly easy to make. It’s destined to become a household favorite with a velvety cheese mixture, tender chicken, and a crispy topping.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 sleeve (about 1 cup) Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra crispiness)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Fold the shredded chicken into the cheese mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Transfer the chicken and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 2: Add the Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Mix until the crackers are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. For extra texture and flavor, you can sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 3: Bake and Serve the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and makes it easier to scoop out.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and color.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly topping.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Perfect for meal prep!
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery crunch. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it today and enjoy the million-dollar flavor! don’t forget to join our group Facebook and check out other recipes on acewebinc.com