Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe: This cheesy, creamy, savory one-dish meal is the ultimate comfort food all rolled up into a meal that is as nice as it is delicious. This casserole begins with a base of pulled, tender chicken, which gets slathered in a mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise and shredded cheddar cheese. For an extra layer of decadence, it’s finished with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, which bakes to golden perfection, delivering a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
The secret to this recipe is so great is its versatility and simplicity of assembly. No matter if you’re working from leftover rotisserie chicken or cooking fresh chicken breast, the recipe bends easily to your kitchen timetable. The casserole’s flavors are kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing so that it can be for weeknight dinners, potlucks, family gatherings or meal prep for busy weeks.
Another significant aspect of Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is that it is totally customizable. You could add vegetables such as broccoli, spinach or mushrooms for a healthier spin, or kick it up a notch with jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for some extra burn. Even though it tastes gourmet, this dish is low-effort and uses pantry staples, so it’s accessible for cooks at all levels.
Whether served alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery dinner rolls, this casserole is guaranteed to make any meal feel like a million-dollar feast.
Table of Contents
- The Origins of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Why the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Keys to a Perfect Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Health Benefits of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe From OoohDelish!
- FAQs : Million Dollar Chicken
- Share Your Twist!
The Origins of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
These modernized Million Dollar Chicken recipes embrace the classic American casserole of your childhood, with creamy textures and savory flavors that make it feel like you pulled out all the stops (but you really didn’t). Its name evokes the opulence of its ingredients and the decadence it is. While its origins are steeped in the tradition of preparing a filling casserole at home for family dinners, it has become an editorial darling of sorts for its customizable flexibility and delightfully uniting qualities.
Why the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe Is a Must-Try
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe can be made at home on a budget, and as a bonus, the seasonings can be adjusted to your taste. This recipe is great for busy households and families who want a flavourful, filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The decked-out shredded chicken, creme, sour cream, and such crispy cracker on top, of course. With homemade versions, you can tailor ingredients, like using low-fat dairy or adding vegetables, for a healthier twist while keeping the rich and indulgent taste intact.
Keys to a Perfect Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
The key to getting the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe right is to juggle its creamy filling and crunchy topping. It starts with tender, shredded chicken, which can be cooked in advance (or, honestly, made fresh). Combine cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise and cheddar cheese until balanced and even. Crushed buttery crackers like Ritz make for the topping, creating a golden crust that elevates the dish.
Adding herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavors, while pre-baking the crust ensures a crispy texture. Baking at the right temperature, typically 350°F, ensures even cooking and a bubbly, golden finish.
Health Benefits of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Although decadent, the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe can have some health benefits if made intentionally. Chicken is lean protein: a high-quality source of protein that helps build and preserve muscles and can keep you feeling satisfied. Reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise can lighten the calorie and fat load of a dish without sacrificing flavor. Adding vegetables — broccoli, spinach, mushrooms or others — will increase the fiber and vitamin content of the casserole, resulting in a satisfying, wholesome meal.
| Ingredient | Health Benefit |
|---|---|
| Chicken | High in protein; low in fat |
| Cream Cheese (low-fat) | Calcium and a creamy texture with fewer calories |
| Vegetables (optional) | Fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants |
| Cheddar Cheese | Rich in calcium and adds flavor |
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe From OoohDelish!
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold the shredded chicken into the cream mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm.
Notes
Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe and Keto Diet
The Keto-Friendly Healthy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe. Swap the cracker topping for a low-carb option such as almond flour or crushed pork rinds, and this dish goes keto — and stays crunchy. With its fat-heavy, moderate-protein, and low-carb ingredients like cream cheese and sour cream, this casserole is a perfect meal for anyone looking to stay in ketosis.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe for Weight Loss
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe is indulgent but can be incorporated into a weight-loss plan when made with smart ingredient swaps. Choose lean chicken breast, and use low-fat cheeses and less of the topping. Served with steamed vegetables or a side salad, it is a great way to enjoy a meal without packing on the calories. This allows for a more mindful enjoyment of the comfort food you love while still being conscious of your dietary goals.
A Dish for Every Occasion
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is so good it might actually be illegal and is excellent for any occasion! Whether you’re making dinner for a gathering, an ever-famished family or batch-cooking your favorite make-ahead meals for the week ahead, this one is a home run every time. Pair it with simple sides like garlic bread, roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes to round out the meal. This casserole is so creamy and cheesy, with a crispy topping that everyone will be praising you for it!
FAQs : Million Dollar Chicken
What is Million Dollar Chicken?
Million Dollar Chicken is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, and a crispy buttery topping. Its name reflects the luxurious taste and texture of this comforting casserole, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings.
What to serve with Million Dollar Chicken?
Million Dollar Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or buttery dinner rolls to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
How to make Million Dollar Chicken?
To make Million Dollar Chicken, combine shredded chicken with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, top with a crispy cracker topping, and bake until golden and bubbly.
Share Your Twist!
We’d love to hear your version of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe ! What special ingredients or techniques do you use to make it uniquely yours? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to create even more delicious meals!
References
Try our recipes from OoohDelish!