Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a bubbling casserole that fills the kitchen with delicious aromas. Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is just that dish—a creamy, cheesy delight that has earned its name for good reason. This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with a savory, luscious sauce, topped with a buttery, crunchy layer that makes every bite a pleasurable experience. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this casserole can quickly become a staple on your dinner table.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What makes Million Dollar Chicken Casserole so irresistible? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to throw together and delivers mouthwatering flavors with minimal fuss. This dish is budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for families looking to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s loaded with ingredients that kids adore—creamy soup, gooey cheese, and crunchy toppings—making it a guaranteed hit for everyone at the table.

"Once we tried Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, it quickly became a family staple! So easy to make, and the kids can’t get enough of it."

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is as straightforward as it gets. Begin by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven. A simple blend of shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream forms the base, layered beautifully with cheese and topped off with a flavorful crumb crust. You can have it in the oven before you know it, and it’s sure to be the star of your meal.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Feel free to swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite varieties like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an extra kick. You can also use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a tangy twist.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
3. Spread half of the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture.
5. Add the remaining chicken mixture on top and sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over it.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then layer that mixture on top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Best Way to Serve

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven. Consider pairing it with a refreshing green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the rich flavors. It also goes well with fluffy mashed potatoes or a side of garlic bread for those comforting evenings.

Storage Tips

To keep your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole fresh, allow it to cool completely before storing. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven until heated through.

Pro Chef Tips

• Perfect Shredding: For the best texture, use rotisserie chicken; it saves time and adds incredible flavor.
• Flavor Boost: Add diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Crispy Topping: Experiment with different types of crackers or chips—like sour cream and onion chips—for a unique topping.

Creative Twists

If you’re feeling adventurous, try out some variations of Million Dollar Chicken Casserole to suit different tastes or dietary needs. You can make it a Buffalo Chicken Casserole by adding hot sauce to the mixture, or turn it into a Mexican-style casserole by incorporating black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning. Vegetarian? Substitute the chicken with a medley of hearty vegetables and some plant-based protein.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with baking time adding another 25-30 minutes. In less than an hour, you can have a delicious meal ready.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?

You can easily substitute with homemade cream of chicken sauce or a similar cream soup, such as cream of mushroom. Alternately, a homemade roux could work with some chicken broth and milk for a fresh twist.

With this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe, you’re set to make a delightful dish that not only nourishes but also brings families together. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Paleo

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Description

A creamy, cheesy chicken casserole that is a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
3. Spread half of the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture.
5. Add the remaining chicken mixture on top and sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over it.
6. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then layer that mixture on top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For best texture, use rotisserie chicken; try adding diced vegetables for added nutrition. Experiment with different toppings.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: chicken casserole, comfort food, family dinner, easy recipe, budget-friendly