If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This casserole combines tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and fluffy rice to create a luscious, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Its rich texture and golden, crunchy topping make it a guaranteed hit for family dinners or potlucks. Once you try this Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes for an effortless yet indulgent meal.

Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in perfect harmony to create the creamy, savory, and satisfying experience that is this casserole. Each component plays an essential role—from the tender chicken to the rich cheeses and the crispy Ritz cracker topping that adds that delightful crunch and buttery flavor.

3 cups cooked chicken: shredded or diced, the heart of the dish providing protein and savory flavor.
3 cups cooked white rice: creates a fluffy, comforting base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
8 oz cream cheese, softened: adds rich creaminess and binds the casserole together perfectly.
1 cup sour cream: brings a subtle tang and smooth texture to brighten the richness.
1 cup cottage cheese: adds a gentle curd texture with extra protein and moisture.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully to create gooey, stretchy bites.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: adds sharpness and a classic cheesy depth.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: an easy way to add creaminess and chicken flavor.
½ cup chicken broth: keeps the casserole moist and enhances the savory notes.
½ tsp garlic powder: warms the flavor with a mild garlic undertone.
½ tsp onion powder: adds sweetness and depth without overpowering.
Salt and pepper to taste: essential to enhance and balance all the dish’s flavors.
½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional topping): for a buttery, crunchy finish that makes this casserole feel extra special.
2 tbsp melted butter (optional topping): combines with the crackers to give a golden, crisp crust.

How to Make Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and makes cleanup easier later. Setting the oven now gives you time to mix up all the delicious ingredients while it warms.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and homogeneous. This creamy blend is the magic that holds the casserole together and infuses every bite with flavor.

Step 3: Fold in Chicken and Rice

Next, fold in the cooked chicken and cooked rice carefully. It’s important to mix everything thoroughly so each spoonful has a perfect balance of protein, carbs, and creamy sauce. The cooked chicken provides hearty substance, while the rice ensures comfort and fullness.

Step 4: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared dish. Taking care to distribute it nicely means it will bake evenly and be easier to serve. This is where it starts looking like the million-dollar meal that it is.

Step 5: Add the Topping

If you’re using the optional topping, gently toss the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle this golden, buttery mixture evenly over the casserole. This step adds an irresistible crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top. The high heat melts all those wonderful cheeses and crisps the cracker topping to perfection, delivering both flavor and texture.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Remove your casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This brief pause helps it set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve without losing that creamy, cheesy goodness.

How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe even more, try sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives on top before serving. The bright green herbs add a pop of color and a fresh note that balances the richness. A light drizzle of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon also adds a delightful zing if you like a little kick.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple veggie sides to balance the richness. Steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a crisp garden salad all make excellent companions. If you want more comfort food vibes, creamy mashed potatoes or buttered corn would also be fantastic.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe in colorful individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. You can also layer this casserole in a clear glass dish to show off the creamy layers and golden topping. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese on top after baking, melted under a broiler for a minute, gives it an ooey-gooey sparkle.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Storing it properly maintains the creamy texture and helps all those beautiful flavors meld even further.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully. Just assemble it but don’t bake, then cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the freezer, adding about 15 extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

When reheating leftover casserole, warming it gently in the oven at 325°F until heated through keeps it creamy and avoids drying it out. You can cover it with foil to prevent the topping from burning. Microwaving works too; cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely, brown rice can be used for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just be sure it’s fully cooked and slightly softer since it doesn’t absorb moisture from the casserole as well as white rice does.

Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken?

Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor. Just shred or dice it before mixing into the casserole for easy prep.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or low-fat?

While the creamy texture depends on the cheeses and dairy, you can try substituting with dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream, and use a low-fat cottage cheese. The flavor will be a bit different but still delicious and comforting.

What can I substitute for Ritz crackers in the topping?

You can use crushed buttery crackers, breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips for a similar crunchy topping with a different twist.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Adding cooked broccoli florets, peas, or chopped bell peppers will bring extra color, nutrients, and texture. Just mix them in with the chicken and rice before baking.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone ask for seconds and brightens up any day with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole’s rich flavors and comforting textures will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection. Give it a try soon and enjoy a meal that feels truly priceless!