When it comes to comfort food, casseroles are hard to beat. They’re warm, filling, and often made with a medley of ingredients that create a deliciously satisfying meal. This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is no exception. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery cracker crust, this dish is everything you could want in a comforting family dinner. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for those nights when you need something simple yet indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole lives up to its name by delivering a meal that feels extravagant yet is made with everyday ingredients. The combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and a mix of cheeses creates a rich and hearty base that’s topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust. The end result is a casserole that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a cozy Sunday dinner.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the refrigerator, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken, turning simple ingredients into a meal that tastes like it took hours to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this decadent chicken casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover chicken or a store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang to the sauce.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: For a rich, creamy texture.
- 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup: The base of the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharp, savory flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For extra gooeyness and stretch.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty flavor.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (about 1 sleeve): For a crunchy topping.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the cracker topping and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For an extra layer of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the savory flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a hint of herbiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors in the casserole.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a touch of color and freshness to the finished dish.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
This casserole comes together in just a few simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a little melted butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken and Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, condensed cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Cracker Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. This will form the delicious, buttery crust on top of the casserole.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken filling in the baking dish. This layer will add a wonderful crunch to the creamy casserole.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl: For combining the chicken and cheese filling.
- Medium mixing bowl: For preparing the cracker topping.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: For baking the casserole.
- Spatula or spoon: For mixing and spreading the casserole ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
