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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole has always been my answer to busy weeknights when I need something rich and satisfying but still easy to pull together. Creamy chicken, bubbly cheese, and a buttery cracker topping form a golden crust that is impossibly comforting. It is the kind of meal you crave when you want a hearty bite and a cozy kitchen.
I landed on this recipe one chilly night when I had a rotisserie chicken to use up, and everyone scraped their plates clean. Now I double it whenever company comes over.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: Choose either shredded or diced for more texture. Use rotisserie chicken for the juiciest flavor.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup: Delivers that classic creamy base. Opt for low sodium if desired.
- Sour cream: Rounds out the richness and adds a subtle tang. Choose full fat for best flavor.
- Mayonnaise: Helps the casserole stay extra creamy. Go with a real mayo rather than a substitute for classic taste.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Brings sharp, melty goodness. Select a block and grate it yourself if possible.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides stretch and pulls through every forkful. Whole milk mozzarella melts best.
- Ritz crackers: The easy path to a buttery crunchy topping. Freshly crushed gives best texture.
- Unsalted butter: Melds the crackers together and ensures the topping crisps up nicely. Use real butter here.
- Bacon: Brings irresistible smoky flavor. Use center cut and bake for maximum crispness.
- Salt and pepper: Balances and brightens all the flavors. Taste and adjust as you wish.
- Chopped chives: For a fresh finish. Choose bright green and snip just before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly so nothing sticks later.
- Mix the Base:
- Combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, both shredded cheeses, and most of the crumbled bacon in a large bowl. Add salt and pepper. Mix until everything is creamy and well combined so no dry pockets remain.
- Assemble in the Baking Dish:
- Scoop the chicken filling into the baking dish and spread it out evenly with the back of a spoon. Make sure there are no gaps or dry edges so every bite is moist.
- Make the Cracker Topping:
- In a separate bowl, toss crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until every crumb is glistening. This is what will create that golden top layer during baking.
- Top the Casserole:
- Sprinkle the buttery crackers right over the chicken base all the way to the edges so you get crunch in every bite.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the dish in the oven uncovered and bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until the edges are bubbly and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Crisp Up the Bacon:
- Take your reserved bacon slices and bake them in the oven at three hundred seventy five degrees for about twenty minutes or until golden. Once cooled, crumble to add extra crunch and flavor.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove casserole from oven and scatter on extra crumbled bacon and fresh chives. Let it sit five minutes before scooping to help the cheese set.
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My favorite part is always the cracker topping. Growing up, my grandma would let me be in charge of crushing the crackers and that buttery step is still my favorite. The way it crisps up in the oven is the reason I always sneak a corner piece first.
Storage Tips
Once cooled, cover leftover casserole tightly in the refrigerator for up to four days. I always recommend reheating in the oven to bring back the crispy texture. You can also freeze individual portions wrapped in foil for a quick lunch later.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in cooked turkey for the chicken if you have it left over from a holiday meal. Greek yogurt works in place of sour cream if you want to lighten things up a touch. Crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs can substitute for Ritz crackers if that is what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your casserole with a light salad dressed in lemon for a fresh contrast or simply add some steamed green beans. If you love heat, a little hot sauce over the top brings a southern twist that I enjoy on chilly evenings.
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Cultural and Historical Context
This casserole is a true American comfort dish, taking inspiration from retro cream soup bakes and potluck recipes. The million dollar name comes from just how rich and over the top it tastes, especially with the double cheese and bacon combo. Dishes like this have been showing up on dinner tables for generations and always bring families together.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of chicken works best?
Use cooked, shredded or diced chicken breast or thigh for tender results. Rotisserie chicken also works well for convenience.
- → Can you substitute the cheeses?
Yes, swap cheddar or mozzarella for Monterey Jack, Colby, or your preferred cheese to match your tastes.
- → How do you get a crispy topping?
Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle evenly before baking for a golden, crisp crust.
- → Is it possible to prepare ahead?
You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add cracker topping right before baking.
- → Can leftovers be reheated?
Yes, reheat portions in the oven or microwave until heated through. The oven helps maintain the topping's crispness.
- → What sides pair well?
Serve with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or fresh bread for a balanced, satisfying meal.