Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Scrumptious Delight

January 4, 2026June 4, 2025 by Chef Tavio

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded into bite-sized pieces

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

– 1 cup full-fat sour cream

– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 4 cups crushed buttery crackers (preferably Ritz)

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

When I make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, I start with these main ingredients. The cooked chicken gives it a hearty base. Cream cheese and sour cream make the dish creamy and rich. The cream of chicken soup adds flavor and ties everything together.

The shredded sharp cheddar cheese is key for that gooey, cheesy top. I love using frozen mixed vegetables for easy prep, but you can use fresh veggies if you prefer. Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add depth to the taste.

For the topping, crushed buttery crackers give it a nice crunch. I prefer Ritz, but any buttery cracker works well. Finally, melted unsalted butter makes the topping golden and crisp.

You can customize this dish, too. For a twist, try adding:

– Cooked bacon for extra flavor

– Fresh herbs like parsley or chives

– Different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack

These options let you make it your own. The key is to keep the base creamy and rich while adding whatever you love!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Oven

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is key. It helps the casserole cook evenly. If you skip this step, the dish may not cook right.

Creating the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 can of cream of chicken soup. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to blend until smooth. This creamy base is what makes the dish rich and tasty.

Mixing in Chicken and Vegetables

Now, gently fold in 3 cups of shredded chicken and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika for flavor. Season with salt and pepper. Be careful not to over-mix; we want to keep it fluffy.

Assembling the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the dish. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top.

Baking Instructions

In a separate bowl, mix 4 cups of crushed buttery crackers with 1/2 cup of melted butter. Stir until all the cracker pieces are coated. Evenly distribute this mixture over the cheese layer. Then, top with another cup of cheddar cheese. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and bubbling edges.

Cooling and Serving Tips

When it’s done, take the casserole out and let it cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice. Enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Chicken Casserole!

Tips & Tricks

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to switch things up, you can change the cream cheese and sour cream. For cream cheese, try using Greek yogurt. It gives a nice tang and works well in the dish. For sour cream, cottage cheese is a good choice. Just blend it smooth first. You can also use a dairy-free cream cheese if you want a vegan option.

Baking Tips

Keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. The cooking time is about 30 to 35 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the edges to bubble. If the top gets too dark, cover it with foil. This keeps it from burning while the inside cooks fully.

Presentation Advice

Make your casserole look inviting! Serve it right from the dish for a cozy feel. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds a nice pop of color. For a complete meal, pair it with a crisp side salad and some whole grain bread. This makes every bite even better!

Variations

Different Cheese Options

You can switch up the cheese to change the flavor. Try mozzarella for a milder taste. Pepper jack adds a nice kick if you like spice. Creamy gouda gives a rich touch. Feel free to mix different cheeses for a unique twist. Just make sure to keep the total amount around two cups.

Adding More Vegetables

Adding fresh veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. You can use chopped bell peppers for crunch or sautéed spinach for color. Broccoli florets or zucchini slices also work well. Seasonal vegetables like asparagus in spring can brighten the dish. Aim for about two cups of veggies to keep the balance.

Making It Healthier

To make this dish lighter, try low-fat cream cheese and sour cream. You can use Greek yogurt for extra protein. Swap out the buttery crackers with whole-grain options for added fiber. Adding more veggies can also lower calories while increasing nutrients. Just remember, keep the flavors balanced for the best taste.

Storage Information

Refrigeration and Duration

To store leftovers safely, first let the casserole cool. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also use an airtight container. Place it in the fridge. It will stay good for up to four days. Always check for any off smells before eating.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the casserole, use a freezer-safe dish. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap first. Then, add a layer of aluminum foil. This extra layer helps prevent freezer burn. The casserole can last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Best Practices for Reheating

To keep the texture and flavor, reheat your casserole in the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil for the first half of reheating. This keeps it moist. Bake for about 20-30 minutes or until it’s hot throughout. You can also microwave it, but this may make the topping less crunchy. If using the microwave, heat in short bursts and stir in between.

FAQs

Can I make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. To do this, follow these steps:

– Assemble the casserole: Prepare it up to the baking step.

– Cover it well: Use plastic wrap or foil to seal the dish.

– Chill in the fridge: Store it for up to 24 hours before baking.

When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven. Remove the cover and bake as usual. If it is cold from the fridge, add 5-10 minutes to the baking time. This method saves time on busy nights, making it easy to serve a warm meal.

What can I substitute for crushed crackers?

If you don’t have crushed crackers, try these options:

– Bread crumbs: Use plain or seasoned bread crumbs for a different texture.

– Panko: This offers a light and crispy topping.

– Cornflakes: Crush them up for a sweet crunch.

– Oatmeal: Rolled oats can work as a healthy alternative.

These substitutes keep the casserole delicious while adding unique flavors.

Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. Here are some ideas:

– Chickpeas or tofu: Use these instead of chicken for protein.

– Vegetable broth: Swap the cream of chicken soup for a veggie version.

– Add more veggies: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor.

These swaps make this dish plant-based while still being hearty and tasty.

This blog post explored making a tasty casserole. You learned about main and optional ingredients. I shared step-by-step instructions for assembly and baking. Tips and tricks included ingredient swaps and presentation ideas. We also discussed variations and how to store leftovers.

Casseroles are great for meals and easy to customize. You can make them healthier or vegetarian. Enjoy your cooking and share your tasty result