MILLION DOLLAR CHICKEN CASSEROLE

I’ll never forget the church potlucks of my childhood – tables laden with every imaginable dish, each one a testament to someone’s love and skill. But there was always one casserole that disappeared faster than you could say “seconds”: a creamy, cheesy, chicken concoction that felt like pure comfort in every bite. It wasn’t until years later that I learned the secret ingredient and started making my own version of what I now affectionately call Million Dollar Chicken Casserole – So Creamy! Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Million Dollar Chicken Casserole – So Creamy! you’ll ever make!

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

There’s just something undeniably comforting about a creamy casserole. Whether it’s a chilly autumn evening or a need for a little culinary hug, a good casserole always hits the spot. This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole takes that comfort to a whole new level. We’re talking layers of tender chicken, a decadent cream sauce, a touch of sharpness from cheddar, and a crispy, golden topping that will have everyone clamoring for more.

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s face it, there are a million chicken casserole recipes out there. But this one stands out for a few key reasons:

• The Creamy Sauce: It’s not just cream of mushroom soup dumped straight from the can. We’re building layers of flavor with sautéed onions, garlic, and a carefully crafted sauce that’s rich and deeply satisfying.
• Tender, Juicy Chicken: No dry, rubbery chicken here! We’ll use a method that guarantees perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time.
• That Crispy Topping: It’s the perfect textural contrast to the creamy interior. We’re not just talking about breadcrumbs; we’re adding a little something special to take it over the top.
• It’s adaptable: You can easily adjust this recipe to your liking, adding your favorite veggies or cheeses.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients. Don’t be intimidated by the list – most of these are pantry staples!

• Chicken: 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!)
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Butter: 4 tablespoons (divided)
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
• Chicken Broth: 1 1/2 cups
• Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 1/2 cups, shredded (divided)
• Sour Cream: 1/2 cup
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve, crushed
• Melted Butter (for topping): 2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Let’s make this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. The aroma should be enticing!
3. Make the cream sauce. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
4. Add the chicken broth. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds tons of flavor! Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. The sauce should be smooth and velvety.
5. Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine. The sauce should be rich and luxurious.
6. Add the cheese and sour cream. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to personalize the flavor!
7. Combine the chicken and sauce. Add the cooked and shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Make sure every piece of chicken is enveloped in that glorious cream sauce.
8. Pour into the baking dish. Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
9. Make the topping. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the melted butter. Mix well until the crackers are evenly coated. The topping should look golden and crumbly.
10. Sprinkle the topping over the casserole. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
11. Bake. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the topping from burning.
12. Let it rest. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld together.

Success Tips for a Perfect Casserole

Want to ensure your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a guaranteed hit? Here are a few golden tips:

• Use a Good Quality Chicken Broth: The flavor of the chicken broth will greatly impact the overall taste of the casserole. Opt for a low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken will be dry and rubbery. If you’re cooking the chicken yourself, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese will incorporate into the sauce much more easily, resulting in a smoother, creamier texture. Leave it out at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a sharp provolone for a more intense flavor.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the cracker topping just before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.

Variations and Add-Ins

The beauty of a casserole is its versatility! Here are a few ideas to customize your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole:

• Add Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli florets, peas, diced carrots, or mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
• Use Different Crackers: Experiment with other types of crackers like saltines or even potato chips for a unique topping.
• Add Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the chicken and cheese perfectly. Consider it!

Serving Suggestions

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are healthy and delicious options.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve the casserole with creamy mashed potatoes.

Other Delicious Chicken Recipes

If you’re a fan of chicken casseroles, you might also enjoy these other fantastic chicken recipes. They all offer different flavor profiles and are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

For a zesty and flavorful option, try the BANG BANG CHICKEN BOWLS!. It’s a great way to add a little excitement to your dinner routine. Or if you’re craving something creamy and comforting, the CHICKEN BACON PASTA is a must-try. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. For a fun twist, consider the BBQ CHICKEN MAC HEAVEN, it combines two comfort food classics into one amazing dish! And if you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to impress, the Marry Me Chicken is known for its incredibly creamy and flavorful sauce. Don’t forget the easy and delightful Creamy Chicken & Rice Casserole for a simple weeknight dinner. If you want something with a little bit of Mexican flavor, try this Chicken Burrito Casserole.

How to Store Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can You Freeze Chicken Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – my secret recipe for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole – So Creamy! I promise you, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect dish for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. Enjoy!

Lady Maria

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken in a decadent cream sauce, topped with a crispy, golden Ritz cracker crust. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2-3 cups cooked and shredded chicken rotisserie chicken recommended
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons butter divided
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded divided
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
• 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• large skillet
• medium bowl
• whisk
• measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Oven
• Grater (for cheese)

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
6. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasonings as needed.
7. Add the cooked and shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
8. Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
9. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the melted butter. Mix well until the crackers are evenly coated.
10. Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
12. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. To prevent the topping from burning, cover the casserole with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before reheating. Consider adding cooked bacon crumbles or your favorite vegetables for added flavor and texture.