20 Minutes to Make Divine Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you want to whip up something that everyone in the family will enjoy without spending hours in the kitchen. The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is your answer! This dish combines tender, shredded chicken with creamy flavors and a crunchy topping, making it a quick yet satisfying meal that feels indulgent. I discovered this casserole during one of those hectic evenings, and it has since become a staple in my home. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, this recipe shines.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder, what sets this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole apart from the myriad of other casseroles out there? Here are some reasons you’ll love making it:

• Incredible Flavor: With a blend of creamy soups, cheese, and a buttery crumb topping, each bite bursts with flavor.
• Quick Preparation: You can have this dish in the oven in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients like cooked chicken and pantry staples means you’ll save both time and money.
• Family-Friendly: Its delightful blend of flavors and textures makes it a hit with kids and adults alike.

“This casserole was a game-changer for our weeknight meals! It’s so creamy and delicious that the kids asked for seconds!” — Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is easy and straightforward. Here’s a quick overview to set you up for success:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Combine crushed crackers with melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle over the casserole.
5. Bake until it’s bubbly and golden brown, then let it rest before serving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this mouthwatering casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Feel free to substitute the chicken with rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep time, or swap the cheddar for your favorite cheese to customize the flavor!

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Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix the Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well incorporated.

3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

4. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are well coated. Evenly sprinkle this crunchy topping over the casserole.

5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

6. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to stand for a few minutes before serving to let it set.

Perfect Pairings for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Wondering what to serve alongside this delightful casserole? Here are some ideas to complement its creamy, savory goodness:

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread provides a perfect side for sopping up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try some roasted seasonal vegetables for a colorful and healthy addition.

Best Way to Store Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

To keep your leftovers fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: If you want to freeze it, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It should be good for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Pro Chef Tips

Here are some expert tips to elevate your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole:

• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese for unique flavor profiles; Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a nice kick!
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate frozen peas or corn for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
• Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it right before you’re ready to serve.

Creative Twists

Feel like switching it up? Here are some fun variations to try:

• Buffalo Chicken Casserole: Swap the regular chicken for shredded buffalo chicken for a spicy twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the chicken mixture for an aromatic enhancement.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this casserole take to bake?

Typically, it bakes for about 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until bubbly and golden brown.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor.

How should I reheat this casserole?

You can reheat it in the microwave or cover it with foil in the oven until heated through.

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will bring comfort and joy to your table. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish delivers on flavor and satisfaction every time. Enjoy!

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A creamy and indulgent chicken casserole topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker coating, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cheddar cheese.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Combine crushed crackers with melted butter in a small bowl and sprinkle over the casserole.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown, then let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For quicker prep time, you can use rotisserie chicken. Feel free to substitute cheddar with your favorite cheese.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, weeknight dinner, comfort food