Description
Creamy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich and comforting baked dish combining tender shredded chicken with a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses, topped with a crunchy buttery cracker crust. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner and can be personalized with added ingredients like bacon or mushrooms.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add Chicken: Fold the cooked shredded chicken into the creamy cheese mixture until the chicken is fully coated and evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the chicken and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for an even bake.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken casserole to create a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping has turned golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and, if desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient option.
- For extra richness, add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms into the mixture.
- Pairs well with green beans or a simple fresh salad on the side.
