Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s easy to make and absolutely satisfying. I mix shredded chicken with a rich blend of cheeses, mayo, and sour cream, then top it with buttery Ritz crackers for the perfect golden finish. It’s cozy, indulgent, and perfect for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe for how creamy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing it is. The ingredients come together effortlessly, and the crispy cracker topping gives each bite a satisfying crunch. It’s great for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or when I need something hearty and filling. I also appreciate how versatile it is—it works with any cooked chicken I have on hand.

ingredients

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

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

directions

I begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, I combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. I season the mixture with salt and pepper and stir until well blended.

I pour the chicken mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth it into an even layer.

In a separate bowl, I mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until evenly coated.

I sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole and bake it in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown.

After removing it from the oven, I let it cool slightly before serving. I like to garnish it with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 to 8 servings. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25 to 30 minutes to bake, for a total time of 40 to 45 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I stir in cooked pasta or rice to make it even more filling. I also like swapping the cheese varieties or adding diced green chiles or jalapeños for a little kick. For a veggie boost, I add thawed frozen peas or chopped broccoli before baking.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, I use the microwave or oven until it’s heated through. I cover it with foil while reheating to keep it moist.

For longer storage, I freeze the cooled casserole wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It lasts up to 2 to 3 months in the freezer. I thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?

Yes, I often use rotisserie chicken—it adds great flavor and saves time.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble it ahead and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?

Yes, I freeze it after assembling or baking, and reheat it when needed.

Can I add pasta to this recipe?

Yes, I sometimes stir in cooked pasta like penne or rotini for a heartier meal.

What can I serve with this casserole?

I like pairing it with a green salad or garlic bread for a balanced, comforting meal.

How do I keep the topping crunchy when reheating?

I reheat uncovered or use the oven instead of the microwave to maintain the crunch.

Can I use a different topping?

Yes, I use panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes if I want a different texture.

Is it okay to skip the mayonnaise?

I can use more sour cream or Greek yogurt if I want to skip the mayo.

Can I make it in individual servings?

Yes, I bake it in ramekins for a more elegant presentation and easy portioning.

What herbs go well with this dish?

I use parsley, chives, or thyme for added freshness and flavor.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich, comforting dish that I always turn to when I need something easy and satisfying. With its creamy filling and buttery cracker topping, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m feeding my family or sharing it at a potluck, it’s always a hit.

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