Name: Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded.; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened.; 1 cup sour cream.; 1/2 cup mayonnaise.; 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup.; 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup.; 1 cup grated cheddar cheese.; 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese.; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder.; 1/2 teaspoon paprika.; Salt and pepper to taste.; 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers.; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted.; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish).

Imagine a dish so rich and satisfying, it's like a hug for your taste buds 🤗. Our Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is just that—a heartwarming ensemble of tender chicken pieces, enveloped in a velvety sauce made from a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and a touch of mayonnaise for silkiness. The secret to its million-dollar taste? A sprinkle of sharp cheddar and the slight tang of green onions, creating layers of flavor that elevate this dish from a simple casserole to a gourmet masterpiece. Topped with a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust, each bite offers a delightful crunch, followed by the creamy, comforting goodness underneath. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or when you need a little culinary indulgence, this casserole doesn't just feed the body—it feeds the soul.

Welcome to a rich and creamy delight: Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This dish combines tender shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, and a crispy Ritz cracker topping to create a casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Let's dive into the ingredients that make this dish so special.

Ingredients

Here is a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need to create Million Dollar Chicken Casserole:

4 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Provides a tender and flavorful base for the casserole.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds a rich and creamy texture.
1 cup sour cream: Enhances the creaminess and adds a slight tang.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup: Adds depth of flavor and creaminess.
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup: Provides an additional layer of savory flavor.
1 cup grated cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor.
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese: Provides a melty, gooey texture.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a mild smokiness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish to perfection.
2 cups crushed Ritz crackers: Creates a crispy, buttery topping.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the cracker topping and adds richness.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the finished dish.

With these carefully selected ingredients, you are ready to create a delicious and satisfying casserole that will impress your family and friends. Next, we’ll go through the detailed instructions to prepare this flavorful dish.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a rich and creamy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to ensure that the casserole does not stick and comes out easily after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix well to combine all ingredients. This mixture forms the creamy, flavorful base of your casserole.

Step 3: Assemble Casserole

Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure that the mixture is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Prepare Topping

In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers with 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter until well combined. This mixture will form the crispy, buttery topping for your casserole.
Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of the chicken mixture, ensuring an even layer. This will give the casserole a delicious crunch.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the casserole to avoid over-baking.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

With these detailed instructions, you’ll have a flavorful and impressive Million Dollar Chicken Casserole ready to enjoy. Next, we’ll cover some serving and storage tips, along with variations and helpful notes to enhance your cooking experience.

Serving and Storage Tips

Enjoying your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is simple with these serving and storage tips. Proper storage ensures that you can savor this delicious dish even as leftovers.

Serving: Serve this casserole hot, straight from the oven, for the best taste and texture. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of garlic bread. For an added touch, garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Storage: If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Proper storage helps maintain the flavor and texture of the casserole.
Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. The oven method helps retain the crispy texture of the Ritz cracker topping.

Helpful Notes and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole and make it your own:

Additional Flavors: Enhance the flavor by adding other ingredients to the chicken mixture. Consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or frozen peas for added texture and taste.
Cheese Options: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. This will give the casserole a spicy kick that complements the creamy components.
Alternative Toppings: Instead of Ritz crackers, try using crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed pretzels for a different crunchy texture and flavor.

Renowned chef Julia Child once said, "The only real stumbling block is fear of failure. In cooking, you've got to have a what-the-hell attitude." Embrace this spirit when making your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create a dish that reflects your personal taste. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out new variations, this casserole is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.