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I came across this amazing Million Dollar Chicken Casserole way back and it's now my go-to dish when family comes over. The name isn't kidding around - this dish is total luxury comfort food that mixes tender chicken, cream cheese and that crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker layer on top that has everyone coming back for more.
The Foolproof Dinner Winner
This casserole's gotten me out of trouble so many times when I need dinner that won't let me down. The real magic is how those creamy ingredients all melt into each other, making this super rich texture that my children absolutely love. I'm a big fan of getting it ready ahead of time, which works great on hectic days or when friends pop in without warning.
What You'll Need
- Cooked Chicken: 4 cups, torn into shreds - rotisserie or leftover chicken works great.
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, left out to soften for easy mixing.
- Cottage Cheese: 1 cup, adding extra creaminess and protein boost.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup, bringing that tangy richness to the mix.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz), condensed to create that smooth base.
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp, giving a mild savory touch.
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp, adding flavor complexity.
- Ritz Crackers: 1 sleeve, smashed up for that buttery top layer.
- Butter: 4 tbsp, melted, to hold the cracker topping together.
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Cooking Steps
- Get Your Oven Ready
- Turn your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Create the Creamy Base
- In a big bowl, stir together your shredded chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add some salt and pepper, and blend until everything's mixed well.
- Put It All Together
- Spread your chicken mixture flat in your greased dish. Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers on top, then pour melted butter over everything.
- Bake Until Bubbly
- Cook uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until you see bubbling around the edges and the top turns golden brown. If you want, sprinkle some dried parsley on top before serving.
Storage Tips
This dish stays yummy in the fridge for about 4 days if you store it right. I often make a second one for the freezer where it'll keep for around 2 months. Just don't forget to move it to the fridge the night before you want to eat it. I always throw some foil over it when warming it up so all that creamy goodness doesn't dry out.
Perfect Pairings
My family can't get enough of this casserole with easy sides. I typically throw together some steamed green beans or a quick salad. When my husband's extra starving I put it on top of white rice or egg noodles. And nobody can resist using the homemade garlic bread to mop up every bit of that creamy sauce.
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Make-Ahead Wonder
This dish is my lifesaver during crazy weeks. I usually fix it at night after the kids go to bed. You can keep it in the fridge a day before cooking or stick it in the freezer for those super busy times. Just let it warm up a bit before sticking it in the oven and dinner's all sorted out.
Tasty Twists
My kitchen turns into a playground with this recipe. Some nights I throw in some mushrooms or add spinach. I tried swapping in cream of mushroom soup last month and it turned out fantastic. My daughter goes crazy when I sprinkle extra cheese on top sometimes mozzarella or a bit of sharp cheddar. It never disappoints.
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
Every time I take this casserole to gatherings or holiday dinners it vanishes in no time. There's just something about that crunchy golden topping and that smooth filling that makes everyone feel good. I love watching people's reactions when they try their first bite.
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Bright Side Dishes
To cut through all that wonderful richness I always serve something fresh alongside. A simple bowl of greens with lemon or some herby roasted vegetables brings everything into balance. My summer tomato salad with dressing pairs up really well too.
Leftover Tricks
The extras from this casserole make awesome quick lunches. I sometimes heat it up and stuff it in a wrap or pile it onto a baked potato. My husband takes it to work the day after and his workmates always wonder what smells so good.
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Luxurious But Affordable
This casserole shows you don't need fancy stuff to cook something impressive. I buy rotisserie chickens when they're cheap and keep the other items stocked in my cupboard. It feeds my whole family with plenty left over while still keeping our food costs down.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Is it okay to prep this dish early?
Yes, make it ahead and chill or freeze. Save the Ritz topping until right before baking for the crunchiest crust.
- → How long can this dish stay frozen?
This bake stays good in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure it’s fully thawed in the fridge before cooking.
- → What’s the easiest way to handle the chicken?
Rotisserie chicken works fast! Leftovers or boiled chicken breasts are great choices too.
- → Can this be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free version and use pork rind crumbs instead of Ritz crackers.
- → Why does cream cheese need to be soft?
Softened cream cheese mixes way easier. If you're short on time, pop it in the microwave for 20 seconds.
Conclusion
A no-fuss cheesy chicken bake layered with crunchy Ritz crackers. Great for family dinners or make-ahead meals.