Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting and creamy dish to serve your family, this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a must-try! With layers of shredded chicken, a creamy sauce, and a crispy cracker topping, it’s an indulgent meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or a cozy family gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Comforting: The combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream of chicken soup creates a rich, creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
• Cheese Lovers’ Dream: With three types of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan), this casserole is incredibly cheesy and flavorful.
• Crispy Topping: The buttery crushed crackers give the casserole a deliciously crispy and golden finish.
• Simple & Quick: You can make this casserole in just a few easy steps with minimal prep time.
• Feeds a Crowd: This hearty dish is perfect for feeding a larger group, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings.

this RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 10.75 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
4. Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter. Stir until the crackers are coated in butter.
5. Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
6. Bake: Bake for 40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.
7. Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: To save time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the mixture before transferring it to the baking dish and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
• For Extra Flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

How to Serve

• Serve with Vegetables: Pair the casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with Rice: Serve it over a bed of rice for an extra hearty dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes or until heated through.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes! Feel free to substitute the mozzarella or cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss for a different flavor.
2. Can I make this casserole with turkey instead of chicken? Yes, shredded turkey works perfectly in place of the chicken.
3. Can I use low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise? Absolutely! You can substitute with lower-fat versions for a lighter option.
4. Can I make this casserole without the crackers? Yes, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can skip the crackers or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
5. How do I make this casserole spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken mixture to give it some heat.
6. Can I use a different type of soup? You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or another cream-based soup if you prefer.
7. Can I double this recipe? Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger pan. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
8. Can I freeze this casserole before baking it? Yes, you can prepare the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and bake it from frozen when ready.
9. How can I make the topping even crispier? You can toast the crushed crackers in a pan with a little butter before sprinkling them on top for an extra-crispy finish.
10. Can I add vegetables to the casserole? Yes! You can stir in some frozen peas, spinach, or broccoli for added veggies.

Conclusion

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor. The creamy filling, melty cheeses, and crispy cracker topping come together in a satisfying dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to impress! Enjoy!

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