Description
This Creamy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich, comforting dish featuring shredded chicken mixed with a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, and cheeses, all topped with buttery crushed crackers and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or a special occasion, it’s easy to prepare and delivers a satisfying creamy texture with a crispy topping.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz), crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese (or ricotta), shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Chicken: Fold the cooked shredded chicken into the creamy cheese mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated throughout.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the chicken and cheese blend evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top for an even layer.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter until the crackers are well coated.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Rest and Garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Add cooked pasta or steamed broccoli to the casserole to extend and add variety to the dish.
- This casserole freezes well; assemble ahead of time, cover tightly, and freeze before baking.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient option.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute low-fat sour cream and cheeses where possible.