If you’re looking for a cozy, creamy, and totally irresistible dinner that just hugs you from the inside out, look no further than Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This dish is a go-to in my kitchen when I want comfort food that absolutely delivers in flavor and richness, and the best part is how accessible it is—rotisserie chicken, creamy cheese, and a buttery golden cracker topping come together in a way that’s worthy of its name. If you haven’t tried Million Dollar Chicken Casserole yet, you’re in for a weeknight dinner jackpot!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this casserole is a breeze—every component has a purpose, whether it’s adding velvety creaminess, a punch of seasoning, or irresistible crunch on top. Here’s the magic lineup that transforms basic pantry staples into everyone’s new favorite meal.
- Shredded Chicken: Use freshly cooked, rotisserie, or leftover chicken—shredded for maximum tenderness and blend with the creamy base.
- Cream Cheese (softened): This is the backbone of that signature silky texture and ensures every bite is truly luscious.
- Sour Cream: Adds a slight tanginess and even more creaminess, balancing out the richness.
- Mayonnaise: Just enough to bring a smooth mouthfeel and elevate the cream factor without overpowering other flavors.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty, gooey goodness that ties the filling together and adds that classic cheesy pull.
- Garlic Powder: Introduces subtle warmth and depth—just enough to brighten up the casserole.
- Onion Powder: Lends a savory sweetness, rounding out the base flavor profile of the dish.
- Salt: Enhances all the savory notes and keeps the flavors balanced—don’t skip it!
- Black Pepper: A gentle kick that gently cuts through the richness.
- Cooked and Crumbled Bacon (optional): Adds a smoky, salty crunch if you want to dial up the decadence.
- Ritz Crackers (crushed): That signature cracker topping is buttery, crisp, and ultra satisfying as the first thing your fork hits.
- Melted Butter: Coats the cracker crumbs for the perfect golden finish in the oven.
- Chopped Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of freshness and color on top that elevates the finished casserole!
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks and cleanup is easy. This step sets you up for even baking and that beautiful golden crust later on.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large mixing bowl, add your softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a sturdy spatula or hand mixer to blend everything until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. This is the moment where all those flavors start mingling and building the creamy dream that defines Million Dollar Chicken Casserole.
Step 3: Add the Chicken (and Bacon)
Stir in your shredded chicken and bacon (if you’re using it) right into the creamy base. Mix until all the chicken is completely coated—don’t rush this part, because you want every forkful to have a bit of everything. The bacon intensifies the flavor, but the casserole tastes amazing with or without it.
Step 4: Spread into the Baking Dish
Scoop the creamy chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread it into an even layer from edge to edge. Leveling the mixture helps it bake consistently and makes topping the casserole a lot easier.
Step 5: Make and Add the Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, toss your crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until every crumb is glossy and coated. Evenly sprinkle this cracker mixture over the creamy chicken base—it’ll toast to an eye-catching golden brown topping that is just heavenly.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your casserole into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling up at the edges and the cracker topping is golden and crisp. The smells alone will have everyone circling the kitchen. Let it cool for a few minutes before you slice in, so the filling sets and the flavors can shine.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Garnishes
This dish loves a pop of color and a hint of brightness. Scatter chopped fresh parsley over the top just before serving to add a touch of freshness and fancy up the creamy comfort beneath. A little sprinkle of extra cheddar also looks especially tempting if you love things extra cheesy!
Side Dishes
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with just about anything. Personally, I love to plate it alongside a crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette, or lightly steamed broccoli or green beans to balance out the rich, creamy filling. Classic sides like roasted carrots or fluffy mashed potatoes are always welcome too.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, bake the casserole in individual ramekins for adorable, ready-to-serve portions at a dinner party. For family dinner, serve it in the center of the table so everyone can dig in family-style. You can even spoon the filling into hollowed-out dinner rolls for a fun and portable twist for potlucks or parties!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Chicken Casserole stores like a dream! Simply cover the cooled baking dish tightly with foil or transfer servings into airtight containers. It’ll stay tasty and fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches and next-day dinners.
Freezing
This casserole is freezer-friendly and a lifesaver for busy weeks. Once assembled (but before baking), wrap it well in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. You can also freeze baked leftovers; just reheat directly from frozen for a quick meal.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Million Dollar Chicken Casserole in the oven at 325°F until warmed through and bubbly, which helps the topping crisp back up. If you’re microwaving individual portions, add a splash of milk to keep the filling extra creamy and microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh or rotisserie?
Absolutely! Canned chicken works well in a pinch—just drain it thoroughly and break up any large pieces. The casserole will still turn out creamy and flavorful.
Is there a way to lighten up Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Yes—swap full-fat dairy for their light counterparts (light cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo), and consider using less cheese or omitting the bacon. You’ll still get plenty of flavor in a lighter bite.
What substitutions work for the Ritz crackers?
If you don’t have Ritz crackers, crushed buttery club crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even cornflakes can provide a deliciously crispy topping.
Can I make this casserole ahead for a party?
Definitely! Assemble Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, cover tightly, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready—the flavors even improve as they mingle!
Is this casserole freezer-friendly after baking?
Yes, it freezes well already baked. Cool it completely, portion if you like, and freeze in airtight containers. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven until piping hot and crisp.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t fallen in love with casseroles yet, Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is about to win your heart—promise! It’s simple, creamy, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable. I truly hope you make it for your next family dinner or potluck and watch just how quickly it disappears from everyone’s plates!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional)
For the Topping:
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the shredded chicken and bacon if using. Spread the mixture into the baking dish.
- Prepare the Topping: Mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- Great for using up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
- Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
