The moment I pulled that bubbling dish out of the oven, I knew I had struck gold. The rich aroma of melted cheddar combined with the smoky scent of crispy bacon filled my kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to gather around the dinner table. This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole isn’t just any weeknight meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that brings back a chorus of “Wow, what’s in this?” from family and friends.
Picture this: tender chicken coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a crunchy Ritz cracker crust. It’s a simple yet enchanting dish that transforms ordinary evenings into something special. Whether you’re tired of the fast-food cycle or simply seeking a dish that pleases everyone, this casserole delivers astonishing flavors and ease. Perfect for cozy gatherings or when you crave a hearty, home-cooked meal, this recipe has been locked in my culinary rotation for years. Trust me; once you try it, this casserole will earn its rightful place in your recipe arsenal!
Why is Million Dollar Chicken Casserole a Must-Try?
Rich, creamy goodness: The blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and cream of chicken soup creates a luxurious texture that’s simply irresistible.
Bacon perfection: With crispy bacon sprinkled throughout, every bite bursts with savory flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Quick prep time: This casserole comes together quickly, making it an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but craving something special.
Crowd pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it’s a guaranteed hit that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Comfort food classic: This dish embodies what comfort food is all about – it’s warm, satisfying, and reminds you of home.
Dig into the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole and discover why it’s become a favorite for many!
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
• Chicken breast – 2 pounds, boneless and skinless, providing a lean protein base for this hearty meal.
• Cream cheese – 1 package (8 oz), softened to room temperature for that creamy, rich texture.
• Cream of chicken soup – 1 can, adding a velvety depth of flavor and moisture to the dish.
• Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup, bringing an extra layer of creaminess that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
• Bacon – 10 slices, crispy and chopped, infusing every bite with a savory, smoky goodness.
• Green onions – 1/2 cup, chopped (about 4), giving a fresh, vibrant touch to balance the richness.
• Sharp cheddar cheese – 2 cups, shredded, delivering that classic cheesy flavor that makes this casserole a crowd favorite.
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon, enhancing the overall taste with its aromatic notes.
• Onion powder – 1 teaspoon, adding a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Salt – to taste, essential for bringing out all the flavors in the casserole.
• Pepper – to taste, for a hint of spice that makes everything nice.
For the Topping
• Ritz crackers – 30, crushed, providing a buttery, crunchy topping that enhances the casserole’s texture.
• Unsalted butter – 1/2 stick, melted, binding the cracker crumbs together for a golden-brown finish.
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s an experience, perfect for transforming any night into a feast!
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
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Prepare: In a large mixing bowl, add 2 pounds of cubed chicken breast and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon each of garlic and onion powder, plus salt and pepper to taste. Mix carefully to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
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Combine: Next, add 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 8 oz of softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of mayonnaise to the chicken mixture. Toss in half of the chopped bacon and green onions as well. Mix everything thoroughly until smooth.
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Spread: Spoon the well-mixed chicken mixture into a prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.
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Top: In a small bowl, mix together 30 crushed Ritz crackers and 1/2 stick of melted unsalted butter. Sprinkle this crumbly mixture generously over the chicken.
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Bake: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the topping turns golden brown.
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Cool: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Just before serving, top it off with the remaining bacon crumbles and green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Room Temperature: This casserole is best enjoyed fresh. If left out, make sure to consume it within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, make sure it’s covered tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Chicken Casserole!
What to Serve with Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
As you gather around the table, the creamy richness of the casserole pairs beautifully with these delightful sides and treats.
- Garlicky Green Beans: Fresh, sautéed green beans tossed with garlic provide a crisp and bright counterpoint to the creamy casserole.
- Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn drizzled with butter adds a delightful crunch and balances the savory flavors perfectly.
- Simple Tossed Salad: A colorful mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly will refresh your palate and lighten the meal.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges with a sprinkle of sea salt bring a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the dish’s creaminess.
- Sweet Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings a sweet and juicy contrast, cleansing the palate and enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Lemonade or Sweet Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like zesty lemonade or sweet iced tea complement the savory dish and keep the gathering lively.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies, a favorite that pairs delightfully with family gatherings.
- Savory Garlic Bread: Creamy garlic bread, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, is great for scooping up every bite of casserole flavor.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw elevate the richness of the casserole, adding freshness and texture to every bite.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this dish in ways that tickle your taste buds and warm your heart!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a tasty alternative without sacrificing crunch.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a delightful kick that will awaken your senses!
- Vegetable Boost: Toss in 1 cup of frozen veggies like peas or carrots; they’ll add color, nutrients, and a nice textural contrast.
- Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to impart a fragrant depth that elevates the whole dish. Just a handful will do!
- Creamy Variation: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a tangy twist while keeping that creamy consistency intact.
- Bacon Alternatives: Substitute with diced turkey bacon or pancetta—both delicious options that’ll still pack that savory punch.
- Cheese Medley: Swap out sharp cheddar for a combination of Monterey Jack and pepper jack for an exciting melty experience!
- Lighter Version: Use shredded rotisserie chicken and low-fat versions of cream cheese and mayonnaise to trim down calories without losing flavor.
Each variation makes the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole uniquely yours, allowing for endless enjoyment around the dinner table!
Expert Tips for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Perfect Chicken Cubes: Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout the casserole, avoiding undercooked or dry spots.
- Creamy Texture: Let the cream cheese soften completely at room temperature before mixing; this helps achieve a smooth and creamy casserole.
- Crunchy Topping: Mix the Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter thoroughly to ensure every bite has that buttery crunch.
- Bake It Right: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes; if the topping browns too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning while the inside cooks through.
- Add Freshness: Consider adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrients and color without compromising the classic flavors of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole.
Make Ahead Options
Making Million Dollar Chicken Casserole ahead of time is a game-changer for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken mixture—combining the cubed chicken, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can crush the Ritz crackers and mix them with melted butter; keep this topping in a separate container until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, spread the chicken mixture in your casserole dish, top it with the buttery cracker crumbs, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll still enjoy that comforting, delicious meal with minimal effort!
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breast, look for boneless, skinless options that are firm and free of any dark spots. Fresh chicken should have a pinkish hue and any package should be tightly sealed.
What’s the best way to store my leftover Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they can last for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow it to cool to room temperature before sealing. This helps keep the flavors fresh and prevents a soggy texture.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Very! To freeze the casserole, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just be sure to label it with the date so you can keep track.
What if the casserole is too dry after baking?
If you find your casserole a bit dry, it could be due to overbaking. Make sure to check it at the 45-minute mark. If still undercooked, cover it with foil to retain moisture while allowing the inside to finish cooking. Adding a bit more cream of chicken soup or mayonnaise to the mixture can also help keep it moist.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
It’s essential to note that this casserole contains ingredients like onion and garlic, which can be harmful to pets if consumed in larger quantities. If anyone in your family has food allergies—especially to dairy or chicken—be sure to substitute those elements accordingly to accommodate their needs.
Can I add vegetables to the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Definitely! Consider incorporating steamed broccoli, spinach, or even bell peppers to add nutrition and color to your casserole. Just make sure to chop them finely and mix them evenly throughout. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while still adding that comfort your family loves!
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole: Comfort Food at Its Best
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed chicken breast and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix carefully to coat the chicken evenly.
- Next, add shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, and mayonnaise to the chicken mixture. Toss in half of the chopped bacon and green onions as well. Mix everything thoroughly until smooth.
- Spoon the well-mixed chicken mixture into a prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even baking.
- In a small bowl, mix together crushed Ritz crackers and melted unsalted butter. Sprinkle this crumbly mixture generously over the chicken.
- Place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 45-55 minutes. You'll know it's done when it’s bubbly and the topping turns golden brown.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Just before serving, top it off with the remaining bacon crumbles and green onions.