Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

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When comfort calls, few things answer quite like a bubbling casserole pulled straight from the oven. This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole delivers everything you crave in a weeknight dinner: creamy filling, melty cheese, and that buttery, golden cracker crunch on top. It’s rich, cozy, and unapologetically satisfying the kind of dish that makes everyone come back for seconds (and maybe thirds).

It’s also gloriously simple. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen just some leftover chicken, a few pantry staples, and 40 minutes in the oven. Whether you’re feeding family, bringing a potluck dish, or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole fits the bill perfectly.

Ingredients for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

You’ll need just a handful of familiar ingredients — each playing its part in creating that signature “million-dollar” flavor and texture.

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded – leftover or rotisserie works great
• 1 cup sour cream – adds creamy tang
• 1 cup mayonnaise – for rich smoothness
• 1 (10.75-oz) can cream of chicken soup – forms the base sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – brings sharp, savory depth
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, stretchy finish
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds salty nuttiness
• 1 sleeve (about 1 cup) buttery crackers, crushed – classic topping texture
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – binds and crisps the topping
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

1. Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with nonstick spray or melted butter.

2. Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, and cheeses (cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan). Add garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Stir until everything is evenly coated and irresistibly creamy.

3. Spread It Out

Transfer the mixture into your prepared dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

4. Make the Buttery Cracker Topping

In a medium bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter until the crumbs are well-coated and glistening.

5. Top and Bake

Sprinkle the buttery crumbs over the chicken mixture. Bake uncovered for about 40 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the edges bubble.

6. Rest and Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes to set slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm — ideally with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies.

Quick Answer :
To make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, mix shredded chicken with a creamy cheese sauce, top with buttery cracker crumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Texture

• Keep it crispy: Bake uncovered — covering traps steam and softens the cracker topping.
• Want it creamier? Add 2 oz of softened cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
• Avoid dryness: Don’t overbake — remove once bubbly and lightly golden.
• Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken to save prep time.
• Reheat right: Warm leftovers in the oven at 325°F for 15–20 minutes to keep the topping crisp.

Substitutions & Variations

• Healthier Swap: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for extra protein and less fat.
• Low-Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds or almond flour crumbs instead of crackers.
• Flavor Boost: Add bacon bits, spinach, or chopped jalapeños to the mix.
• Different Proteins: Try turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken for speed.
• Cheese Lovers’ Edition: Mix in Monterey Jack or Colby for a creamier melt.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is comfort food heaven on its own — but here’s how to make it shine even more:

• Pair with buttered green beans or a crisp Caesar salad.
• Serve alongside mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a true indulgence.
• A glass of chardonnay, sweet tea, or sparkling lemonade balances the richness beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the cracker topping right before baking.

Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

What if I don’t have crackers?

Use panko breadcrumbs, crushed pretzels, or even cornflakes as a topping alternative.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for 3–4 days.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Estimated)

• Calories: 480
• Fat: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 1g
  (Values vary depending on ingredients used.)

There’s something timeless about a casserole that brings everyone to the table no fuss, no fancy plating, just genuine comfort. This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole isn’t just rich in flavor; it’s rich in nostalgia, too. From the creamy base to that buttery crunch, every bite tastes like home warm, familiar, and just indulgent enough to feel special.

If you make it (and you really should), tell me how it turned out. Share it, print it, save it, or better yet, serve it to someone who needs a little comfort tonight.

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