If there’s one dish that’s guaranteed to steal the show at any family gathering, it’s this incredibly creamy, cheesy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. With its luxurious texture and bursting-with-flavor combo of chicken, cheese, and a buttery cracker topping, it’s easy to see why this recipe is a beloved classic. The moment you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer, you’ll know you’re about to create something both cozy and crowd-pleasing. Let’s dive in and turn your weeknight dinner into a million-dollar experience!

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this casserole lies in the quality and balance of each ingredient. Every item—simple and familiar—brings a unique flavor, texture, or richness to the table. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each choice matters.

Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded or diced): The heart of the dish; rotisserie chicken works wonders or use leftover roasted chicken for extra depth.
Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): Adds creamy, savory undertones that tie all the flavors together effortlessly.
Sour Cream (1 cup): For that subtle tang and silkiness that keep each bite luscious but never heavy.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Makes the filling extra rich with a slight zing, so don’t skip or skimp.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Offers sharpness and melty magic, balancing the creamier elements.
Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Provides mild, gooey melt—perfectly stringy and comforting.
Ritz Crackers (1 sleeve, crushed): The secret to an ultra-buttery, crispy topping.
Unsalted Butter (1/4 cup, melted): Clings to the crackers for that toasted, irresistible finish.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings; taste as you mix for perfectly seasoned filling.
Chopped Parsley (optional, for garnish): Just a sprinkle brightens up the finished casserole and adds a pop of color.

How to Make Pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light greasing with nonstick spray or butter. The coated dish prevents sticking and makes serving super simple, and this prep step sets the stage for casserole success.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, blend your cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, and mozzarella. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then give everything a good stir until it’s creamy and well mixed—no dry spots, no stringy cheese clumps. Every spoonful at this stage promises flavor.

Step 3: Pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer

This is the moment the casserole truly comes together. Pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer with a spatula or the back of a spoon. You want every corner and edge filled so that every portion comes out equally delicious and visually appealing.

Step 4: Prepare and Add the Topping

In a separate bowl, toss your crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. You’re aiming for every crumb to glisten, so they crisp beautifully in the oven. Scatter this mixture right over the chicken layer. When you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer, and cover it fully with this topping, you’re locking in that cozy crunch everyone loves.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake on the center rack for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll see bubbly edges and a topping that’s gone from pale to golden brown—this means maximum flavor and texture. Resist the urge to dig in right away; a quick rest before serving lets everything set up for that classic casserole slice.

How to Serve Pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer

Garnishes

A little flourish goes a long way! Right before serving, scatter a handful of chopped fresh parsley over the top. It adds a lovely pop of green that brightens the dish and makes each plate look inviting. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dusting of paprika can add warmth and a subtle smokiness, especially after you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer beneath the golden topping.

Side Dishes

This casserole is rich and satisfying, but it’s even more memorable when paired with crisp, fresh sides. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed green beans makes for a lively, balanced plate. Consider fluffy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or pillowy dinner rolls to soak up any creamy goodness that follows after you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn a classic casserole into a wow-worthy meal by baking individual servings in ramekins or mini cocottes. For potlucks or holidays, use a pretty ceramic dish and finish it with extra parsley for a festive look. Don’t forget, when you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer, a neat finish makes each serving shine at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your casserole fresh, tightly cover any leftovers with foil or transfer them to airtight containers. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. The creamy texture and buttery topping hold up surprisingly well, so tomorrow’s lunch is truly something to look forward to.

Freezing

Want to make dinner planning even easier? Prepare the dish through the step where you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer, but stop before adding the cracker topping. Cover the unbaked casserole tightly and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, add the fresh cracker topping, and bake as usual.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until bubbly and warmed through—this helps the topping stay crisp. If you’re short on time, a quick zap in the microwave will do, but re-crisp the topping separately under a broiler. No matter the method, that first bite will be as comforting as when you first poured the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is not only a huge time-saver but also adds incredible flavor and tenderness. Just shred or dice it, then follow the steps as written—especially when you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?

If you want to keep things homemade, a quick roux with chicken broth and a splash of cream works wonderfully. You’ll still get the rich, velvety texture that holds everything together. Pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer, with your homemade sauce for best results.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the regular Ritz crackers for a gluten-free version, and double-check that your cream of chicken soup is certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gf, so everyone can enjoy the magic when you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Definitely. Mix up the filling and add it to your dish, cover, and keep it in the fridge up to a day ahead. Just add the fresh topping and bake before serving so the cracker layer is perfectly crisp. When you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer, you’ll save yourself dinner-team stress.

What cheeses work best if I want to switch things up?

Feel free to get creative! Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a pepper jack for some heat will all melt beautifully. The key is using a mix of at least one with sharpness and one with meltiness, so every time you pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer, you end up with a gooey, flavorful center.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a true comfort food upgrade, you can’t go wrong with Million Dollar Chicken Casserole! With every bite, you’ll enjoy why this dish has such a loyal fan base. Don’t wait for a special occasion—grab those ingredients and pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer for a meal that feels every bit as indulgent as its name.

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

★★★★★

5.2 from 21 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This hearty dish features tender chicken mixed with a luscious blend of cheeses, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. A family favorite that’s sure to please!

Instructions

Oven Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the Filling: Combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then mix well.
Fill the Dish: Spread the chicken mixture in the prepared baking dish.
Prepare the Topping: Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until coated.
Add the Topping: Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the chicken layer.
Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with parsley, and serve.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American