If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken, you have found your new favorite. This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is a rich and irresistible blend of shredded chicken, three kinds of cheese, and a crunchy buttery cracker topping that will make your taste buds sing. It’s the kind of casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate and is perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want to spoil yourself with something truly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role in layering flavors and textures, creating that perfect balance of creamy and crunchy you’ll absolutely love. With simple pantry staples and fresh additions, this dish comes together effortlessly yet results in an unforgettable meal.
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The hearty base that adds protein and a satisfying texture.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds creamy tanginess and moisture to the filling.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Brings richness and smoothness, helping bind everything together.
- 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup: Creates a luscious, savory sauce that’s classic in casseroles.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers sharpness and color, melting beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a stretchy, mild cheesiness for balance.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty kick and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (about 1 sleeve): Provides a crisp, golden topping with a delicious buttery note.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Binds the cracker crumbs for a perfect crunchy finish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances flavor with warm, subtle garlic essence.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Gives a hint of herbaceous freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Brightens the dish with a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start your cooking adventure by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your baking dish with a light coating of non-stick spray or butter ensures the casserole won’t stick and makes serving a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken and Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with sour cream, mayonnaise, and condensed cream of chicken soup. Then add in your trio of cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan—along with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until evenly mixed and the flavors meld into a smooth, creamy filling ready to be baked.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer this luscious chicken and cheese mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every slice gets a perfect amount of savory filling. This step sets the stage for that golden crust we’re all excited about.
Step 4: Prepare the Cracker Topping
Next, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter in a separate bowl. Make sure every crumb is coated well—that buttery mixture will crisp up beautifully atop the casserole, adding that signature crunch that makes this dish a million-dollar hit.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the chicken layer. This creates a mouthwatering texture contrast between creamy filling and crunchy top, making every bite a delightful experience.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. Look for a bubbly, golden surface that tells you it’s ready—this combination of hot, melted cheese and crispy topping is honestly irresistible.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, give your casserole a few minutes to rest. This helps the dish set slightly for cleaner servings. Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley makes a simple but impactful garnish to brighten the dish visually and add a herby note. For extra flair, a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes can enhance flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs perfectly with light, refreshing sides that balance its richness. Think crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even a tangy coleslaw. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are wonderful companions.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or family, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with a little extra cracker crumb garnish. Layer it alongside complementary dishes on a buffet table, or plate it with vibrant roasted veggies and a colorful salad for a well-rounded, inviting meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you’re in luck because this casserole stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as delicious.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? You can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a little extra time if needed to get it piping hot throughout.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole covered with foil in a 350°F oven until heated through. To bring back that crisp topping, remove the foil during the last few minutes of reheating to let it regain its crunch.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves prep time. Just shred it up and proceed as usual with the recipe.
Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?
Yes, you can swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and use a reduced-fat cheese blend. Just keep in mind that the richness might be slightly toned down but the dish will still be delicious!
What can I substitute for the buttery crackers?
If you don’t have buttery crackers, crushed panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter work well to create a crispy topping.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping and ensure your condensed soup is gluten-free, which many brands offer.
How spicy is the casserole?
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is mild and comforting, making it family-friendly. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños if you like a little kick.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe is a true winner in my kitchen and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Its creamy, cheesy layers paired with a golden, buttery crust make every bite a joy. Whether you’re serving family or guests, it’s a dish that invites smiles and second helpings. Go ahead and give it a try—you’re going to love every mouthful!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish loaded with shredded chicken, a blend of three cheeses, and a crunchy buttery cracker topping. This comforting casserole combines tender chicken with sour cream, mayonnaise, and condensed soup for richness, then topped with a flavorful, golden crust, making it an ideal family meal or potluck favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Cheese Mixture
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cracker Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (about 1 sleeve)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Chicken and Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, condensed cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the prepared chicken and cheese mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly to form the base layer of the casserole.
- Prepare the Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted unsalted butter until the crackers are well coated with butter, which will help create a golden, crunchy topping when baked.
- Add the Topping: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish, covering the surface completely.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges, indicating it is heated through.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For extra creaminess, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with cream cheese.
- Crushed buttery crackers provide the classic crunchy topping; substitute with crushed Ritz or buttery saltines.
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving to make slicing easier and prevent burns.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat until warmed through.
