Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is incredibly simple to make, yet delivers big, indulgent flavor. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you need a freezer-friendly meal prep option. The creamy filling and golden topping make it a hit with kids and adults alike. Best of all, you can throw it together in minutes using pantry staples and leftover or rotisserie chicken.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
• Cream cheese, softened
• Sour cream
• Cream of chicken soup
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Ritz crackers (or similar buttery crackers), crushed
• Butter, melted
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Fold in the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese, mixing until everything is well coated.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and mix until coated.
6. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden brown top.
8. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling.
• Add-ins: Stir in cooked bacon bits, diced green chiles, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Vegetable boost: Add frozen peas, corn, or steamed broccoli to the mixture before baking.
• Low-carb: Omit the cracker topping or replace it with crushed pork rinds or almond flour breadcrumbs.
• Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through.
To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch, though fresh or rotisserie chicken will have better texture and flavor.

Do I need to cook the chicken before adding it?

Yes, the chicken should be fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What crackers work best for the topping?

Ritz or other buttery round crackers are ideal, but crushed saltines or club crackers can also be used.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute and adds extra protein.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free crackers and make sure your soup is gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just use two baking dishes or one deep 9×13-inch dish and adjust baking time slightly if needed.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

Serve it with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Can I add pasta or rice to the casserole?

Yes, mix in cooked pasta or rice before baking for an even heartier dish.

Why is it called “Million Dollar” chicken casserole?

The name comes from its ultra-rich, creamy texture and comforting flavor—it tastes like a million bucks without costing much to make.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a decadent, creamy dish that brings comfort and convenience to your dinner table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a potluck, this easy casserole is guaranteed to impress. It’s rich, satisfying, and sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation.

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made with tender shredded chicken, a rich cream cheese filling, and a buttery cracker topping. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Fold in the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and mix until fully coated.
6. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until hot and bubbly with a golden brown topping.
8. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

Notes

• Add hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy variation.
• Stir in bacon, green chiles, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Add vegetables like peas, corn, or broccoli to the filling.
• Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour crumbs for a low-carb topping.
• Try different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a twist.
• Can be made ahead and stored unbaked in the fridge or freezer.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 110mg