Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is pure comfort food with creamy layers of chicken and cheese underneath a buttery cracker topping. Whenever my family asks for something cozy that feeds a crowd but does not take all day, this is the dish I reach for. It is easy to assemble ahead and brings nostalgic flavors straight to your dinner table.

I first made this for a snowy Sunday lunch because everyone was home and hungry. It has since become my go to when I want a no fuss meal that everyone gets excited about.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded or diced chicken: Provides a hearty protein base. Opt for rotisserie chicken for juicy flavor without the work
• Condensed cream of chicken soup: Brings creaminess and holds everything together. Look for low sodium options or organic versions for better flavor
• Sour cream: Adds tang and a rich texture. Choose full fat for best results
• Mayonnaise: Gives the dish extra silkiness and depth. Use real mayo rather than salad dressing for a classic taste
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and offers sharp cheesy notes. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre shredded
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates extra gooey pull and a mild flavor. For top melt look for whole milk mozzarella
• Ritz crackers: Make that signature buttery crisp topping. Crush them freshly for big crunchy bits
• Melted unsalted butter: Mixes with crackers to finish the golden top layer. You can also use salted but adjust seasoning
• Salt and pepper: Enhance everything. Be generous but start with a little and taste as you go
• Chopped parsley: Brings freshness and a pop of color. Add just before serving for vibrance

Instructions

Oven Preparation:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius then lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish using butter or nonstick spray. Make sure to cover the bottom and corners completely to prevent sticking

Mix the Filling:

Combine cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a large mixing bowl. Use a big spoon or spatula to stir and fold the mixture until every bit of chicken is coated. Season with salt and pepper while mixing and taste for balance

Fill the Dish:

Transfer the chicken filling to your prepared baking dish and use the back of your spoon to smooth it into an even layer so the topping cooks evenly later

Prepare the Topping:

In a clean bowl add crushed Ritz crackers and pour the melted butter over them. Stir gently with a fork until every crumb has soaked up some butter. This ensures perfect browning

Add the Topping:

Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly right over the chicken filling covering every spot. Press down just a little so it sticks but do not pack it

Bake:

Place dish in the center of your preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the sides are starting to bubble and the topping is golden brown. At this point you will smell the buttery aroma and see little spots of caramelization

Cool and Serve:

Let the casserole sit a few minutes to make scooping easier. The filling sets up just right. Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like

Every time I reach for that sleeve of buttery crackers I remember my son asking to help crush them when he was little. Now it is his job and he insists it is the secret to making the topping extra crispy.

Storage Tips

Once cooled cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage freeze portions in airtight containers. Defrost overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen at a lower oven temp so it heats through evenly. Leftovers stay creamy and delicious.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the chicken for turkey or use a mix of light and dark meat. Greek yogurt works in place of sour cream for a lighter touch. If you want a richer flavor try swapping part of the cheddar with smoked gouda. For the topping try kettle chips or panko crumbs if you are out of crackers.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced plate. This casserole shines at potlucks and works just as well for weeknight family dinners. Try spooning leftovers onto a buttered toasted bun for a decadent sandwich.

Cultural and Historical Context

This type of creamy casserole has roots in American home cooking dating back to the mid twentieth century. It was a way for busy families to use pantry staples and leftover meats in one hearty dish. The buttery topping is inspired by classic Southern recipes that always save room for crunch.

Seasonal Adaptations

Mix in cooked vegetables like peas in winter or asparagus in spring. Switch to turkey after the holidays for a twist on leftovers. Use light Greek yogurt and part skim mozzarella for a spring refresh.

Success Stories

So many have loved this for family gatherings and holiday potlucks. One reader shared that she makes it every year for her daughters birthday and there is never a bite left behind. Another told me it has turned picky eaters into casserole fans.

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble the filling and topping but do not bake. Wrap tightly and freeze. Bake straight from frozen at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until bubbly and browned. Or freeze baked squares in containers for grab and go lunches.

This casserole is true comfort and perfect for sharing. Make it once and it will become a requested favorite for years to come.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred or dice before mixing.

→ What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?

Try buttery club crackers, panko, or even cornflakes for a different crunchy topping.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Prepare the chicken mixture and topping separately, refrigerate, then assemble and bake when ready.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, cool the casserole completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes make great sides for a balanced meal.