If comfort food had a VIP section, Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole would absolutely have a reserved table. This creamy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing casserole brings together tender chicken, fluffy chicken-flavored Rice-A-Roni, a luscious sauce, and the perfect buttery, crunchy cracker topping. It’s just the right amount of cozy and indulgent, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you simply want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe comes together with straightforward ingredients, many of which are probably already in your kitchen. Each element has a role to play – from adding bold flavor, creaminess, or crunch, to giving the casserole its signature golden top.
- Chicken-Flavored Rice-A-Roni (1 box, 6.8 oz): The flavorful base for our casserole, cooked until fluffy for the ultimate texture.
- Cooked and Shredded Chicken (2 cups): Rotisserie chicken works wonders here – tender meat soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This classic adds a silky, comforting richness that brings everything together.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds tanginess and creamy body, balancing the casserole’s richness.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): An unexpected touch, but it ensures ultra-creamy results and extra depth of flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1½ cups, divided): Melts into gooey bliss inside, and makes a bubbly, golden crown on top.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers savory depth without overpowering the chicken.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A little freshly ground goes a long way for rounding out the flavors.
- Chopped Green Onions (1/4 cup): Their fresh, mild bite cuts through the creamy layers beautifully.
- Crushed Ritz Crackers (1 cup): The key to that irresistible, golden, crunchy topping.
- Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Binds the crackers and elevates the entire casserole with rich flavor.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Pan
Start by setting the mood: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and you get those lovely, easy-to-slice servings later. This step is a classic move for any great casserole and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix Up the Creamy Filling
Grab a big mixing bowl and bring together your prepared Rice-A-Roni, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and those vibrant green onions. Stir until you have a fragrant, creamy, beautifully combined mixture that already smells divine. You’ll see right away why this is called Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole!
Step 3: Layer and Spread
Transfer that luscious filling into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out with a spatula or spoon. Try to get an even layer so every scoop delivers the perfect combo of chicken, rice, and sauce in every bite.
Step 4: Make the Crunchy Topping
In a smaller bowl, toss your crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. What you’re making is pure magic: the butter coats the crumbs and helps them get that deep golden color in the oven. Sprinkle this mixture generously over your casserole, creating a blanket of buttery crunch.
Step 5: Add the Final Cheesy Touch
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. This last flourish ensures the Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole emerges with a gooey, golden lid that’s utterly irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for that bubbly, golden, slightly crisp finish on top. The scent wafting through your kitchen is a hint that dinner is about to be spectacular. Let the casserole rest for at least 5 minutes after baking so it sets up perfectly for serving.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra green onions or freshly chopped parsley right before serving adds a vibrant pop of color and a little fresh zip. You could even dust a little paprika or add crispy bacon bits if you’re feeling indulgent. These finishing touches make every plate look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Because Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole already brings the big, comforting energy, simple, crisp sides work beautifully. Try a bright garden salad, steamed green beans, or some roasted broccoli for a pop of color and freshness. Fluffy dinner rolls or garlic bread help soak up every drop of creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Bring out your inner host or hostess: serve the casserole in individual ramekins at dinner parties, or offer a buffet-style spread with assorted toppings (think extra cheese, chopped tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, crisp bacon, or sliced olives). When you want a family-style feast, just let everyone scoop straight from the bubbly pan at the center of the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer portions into airtight containers. The flavors might even deepen a bit overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch extra delicious.
Freezing
This casserole is a meal-prepping superstar! Assemble it up to the topping, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed, or bake straight from frozen (just add extra time and cover with foil at first).
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers in a 350°F oven (covered with foil) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, a minute or two in the microwave works, but that oven method keeps the topping nice and crisp. Add a splash of broth or milk if needed to keep things creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While chicken-flavored Rice-A-Roni brings classic comfort, you can try other savory varieties like herb & butter or even beef. Each will add its own twist but still deliver the signature creamy, cheesy vibe.
What kind of chicken works best?
Shredded rotisserie chicken is the ultimate timesaver for Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole, but any cooked chicken (baked, grilled, poached) works great. Just make sure it’s well seasoned for the best flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can mix up the filling and layer it with the topping, then cover and refrigerate for up to a day. When you’re ready, just bake straight from the fridge. It’s perfect for prepping before busy evenings or entertaining guests.
How can I make this dish even richer?
For next-level creaminess, stir in a few tablespoons of softened cream cheese to the filling. You could also sprinkle crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms over the top before baking for a gourmet twist.
Is Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole kid-friendly?
Kids love it! This casserole has a mild, cheesy flavor and tender texture, so it’s usually an instant favorite for little eaters. If you’d like to sneak in some veggies, finely chop broccoli or carrots and fold them into the mix.
Final Thoughts
No matter the occasion, Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole has a magical way of bringing people to the table hungry and leaving them happy. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try soon and share all those cozy, cheesy bites with your family and friends!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole is a creamy and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. With layers of chicken, Rice-A-Roni, and a cheesy topping, it’s a family favorite!
Ingredients
Rice-A-Roni Mixture:
- 1 (6.8 oz) box chicken-flavored Rice-A-Roni, prepared according to package directions
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Topping:
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared Rice-A-Roni, shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, black pepper, and green onions. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer to baking dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, then sprinkle over the top of the casserole. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Try topping with cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.
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