If you’re looking for a comfort food dish that tastes like a million bucks but requires minimal effort, look no further than this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, this casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner hero. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What Is Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
The term “million dollar” refers to the indulgent, rich, and satisfying nature of the dish. It combines tender shredded chicken with a luxurious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese (or ricotta), topped with cheddar cheese and buttery crackers for that perfect crunch.
It’s the type of dish that feels like a hug on a plate — hearty, creamy, and crave-worthy. Plus, it’s easy to prep ahead or freeze for later, making it a practical favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:
3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese (or substitute ricotta)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
4 tablespoons melted butter
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, and cream of chicken soup. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Seasoning
Fold in shredded chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat all the chicken with the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Step 5: Add Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step 7: Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Top with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✅ Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
✅ Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before and just pop it in the oven.
✅ Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for busy nights.
Tips and Variations
Protein Swap: Use turkey or leftover ham instead of chicken.
Add Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños.
Low Carb Version: Skip the cracker topping or use crushed pork rinds instead.
Easy Chicken Fajita Casserole Recipe
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with:
A light side salad with vinaigrette
Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
It also makes a fantastic potluck or holiday dish.
FAQ: Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken works well in a pinch. Just drain it thoroughly and shred it before mixing.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
Ricotta cheese is a great alternative if you prefer a smoother texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Is this keto-friendly?
With a few tweaks (like skipping the crackers or using keto bread crumbs), this recipe can be made low-carb.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole lives up to its name in every bite. It’s rich, creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping, or hosting guests, this casserole is a guaranteed winner.
Let us know if you try it, and don’t forget to bookmark this recipe for your next comfort food craving!