Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Imagine a dish so rich and satisfying that it feels like a million bucks just to take a bite. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This dish combines creamy, savory goodness with a delightful crunch, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck hit. It’s the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table, eager for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love creamy, comforting meals that are simple to prepare, this recipe is for you. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese creates a luscious texture. Paired with tender chicken and topped with buttery Ritz crackers, each bite is both creamy and crunchy. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up any leftover chicken you have in the fridge.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9-inch baking dish
• Medium mixing bowl
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Oven
• Nonstick spray

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and cream of chicken soup. Stir to combine.
3. Fold in the chopped chicken and pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
5. Bake in the oven until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top, about 30-40 minutes.

Tips for Success

Ensure the cream cheese is softened to blend easily with other ingredients. If using leftover chicken, make sure it’s chopped into small, even pieces for best results. For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or pepper to the mixture.

Additional Tips or Variations

Try adding some cooked broccoli or spinach to the mix for an extra nutritional boost. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is rich in protein from the chicken and dairy, providing a satisfying meal that keeps you full. The creamy base offers calcium, while the cracker topping adds a delightful crunch without overwhelming the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the cracker topping right before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole without the cracker topping, freeze, and then add the topping just before baking. It should be baked directly from frozen, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare. I invite you to give it a try and see for yourself why it’s worth every bite. Don’t forget to share your experience or any twists you added to make it your own!