This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a cozy dish packed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping. It’s perfect for feeding the whole family!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a warm casserole? I love how easy it is to throw everything together—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Great for leftovers, too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Shredded Chicken: This is the star of the show. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, consider using cooked lentils or chickpeas for a similar texture and protein boost.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a dairy-free substitute, though the flavor will change slightly.
Sour Cream: This adds tanginess and moisture. Plain yogurt works as a great alternative, or you can skip it altogether if you prefer less richness.
Cream of Chicken Soup: For a homemade version, mix chicken or vegetable broth with a bit of flour and seasonings. If you want a lighter option, consider using a condensed milk and broth mix instead.
Crushed Butter Crackers: These provide a crunchy topping. If you need a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of garlic powder for flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Has the Right Texture?
The texture is key to a successful chicken casserole. Start by making sure all your components are well-blended. When mixing the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and soup, aim for a smooth consistency. This helps to create a creamy base that hugs the noodles and chicken.
- Don’t skip preheating the oven—baking at the right temperature is crucial for an evenly cooked casserole.
- When adding the crushed cracker topping, compress it slightly with your hands for a more cohesive crust.
- Let it sit for a few minutes after baking—this helps it set and makes serving easier.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked egg noodles
- 1/2 cup green onions, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping Ingredients:
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake, with a total time of around 50 minutes. You’ll mix everything together, assemble the dish, and then just let the oven do its magic. It’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your yummy casserole when you’re done prepping.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, and cream of chicken soup. Using a spatula or a hand mixer, mix them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
3. Combine the Chicken and Noodles:
Add the cooked shredded chicken, cooked egg noodles, diced green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your creamy mixture. Stir everything together gently until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and mixed well.
4. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly so it bakes nicely. This is going to be the heart of your casserole!
5. Make the Crunchy Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed butter crackers with the melted butter. Stir until the crackers are coated with butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture in the casserole dish. This will give your casserole a delightful crunchy topping!
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated all the way through.
7. Let It Rest:
When it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps it set a little. While it’s resting, you can chop some fresh parsley for garnishing.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole with fresh parsley, if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, delicious goodness with family and friends!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great option for this casserole. Just shred the chicken and use about 3 cups. It’ll add fantastic flavor and save you some time!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make your own by mixing equal parts chicken broth and heavy cream with seasonings of your choice. Make sure to adjust salt and spices to keep the flavor balanced!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrap and pop it in the oven! You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
