Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food dish that tastes like a million bucks but is made with everyday ingredients. It’s filled with tender shredded chicken, a velvety cream cheese sauce, and topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker topping. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or prepping a freezer-friendly meal, this casserole always hits the spot.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this casserole because it’s easy to throw together and always delivers big on flavor. It’s creamy, savory, and satisfying—the kind of meal I can rely on when I want something comforting and stress-free. I can prep it ahead of time, make it in bulk, and it reheats like a dream. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime I need a go-to crowd-pleaser.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
cream cheese, softened
sour cream
mayonnaise
cream of chicken soup
shredded cheddar cheese
garlic powder
onion powder
salt and pepper
crushed Ritz crackers or buttery crackers
butter, melted
optional: chopped parsley for garnish
directions
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I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, I mix the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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I fold in the shredded chicken and cheddar cheese until everything is evenly coated.
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I spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
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I mix the crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle them over the top of the casserole.
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I bake for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
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I let it rest for a few minutes before serving, and I garnish with parsley if I want a fresh finish.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6–8 servings. Prep time is 15 minutes, and bake time is 30–35 minutes—ready in under an hour.
Variations
Sometimes I add cooked chopped cooked broccoli to the filling. I’ve also mixed in a little ranch seasoning or hot sauce for a flavor boost. When I want to lighten it up, I use Greek yogurt in place of some of the sour cream and mayo. For a gluten-free version, I use gluten-free cream soup and cracker crumbs.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through or microwave individual portions. This casserole also freezes well—I assemble it up to the topping step, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, I’ve used canned chicken in a pinch. I just make sure to drain it well before mixing.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar is my go-to, but I’ve also used mozzarella or a Monterey Jack blend for a creamier, milder flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. I assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, I freeze it before baking, then thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake it as usual.
What can I serve with Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
I usually serve it with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or rice. It also pairs well with biscuits or garlic bread.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is everything I want in a cozy, fuss-free dinner—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit at the table. Whether I’m serving it to my family or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole never fails to satisfy.
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Category: Main Dish, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy, and ultra-comforting dish made with simple pantry staples. Shredded chicken is coated in a velvety cream cheese sauce, mixed with cheddar, and topped with buttery Ritz crackers for the perfect crispy finish. It’s an easy, family-friendly casserole that lives up to its name—delicious, satisfying, and ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups crushed Ritz crackers or buttery crackers
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Notes
- Add cooked chopped broccoli for extra flavor and texture.
- For a flavor twist, stir in ranch seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use Greek yogurt to lighten up the sauce without losing creaminess.
- Make it gluten-free by using GF cream soup and cracker crumbs.
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