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If you are longing for a dish that wraps you in a warm, cozy hug after a long day, look no further than the Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken Casserole (Million Dollar Chicken Casserole) Recipe. This classic Southern-inspired casserole brings together tender chunks of chicken, creamy cheeses, and a crispy, buttery Ritz cracker topping to deliver an unforgettable flavor and texture experience. It’s truly the kind of meal that feels like a celebration of homestyle cooking, perfect for family dinners or gatherings where you want everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, the ingredients in this chicken casserole come together to create a symphony of creamy, savory, and crunchy notes. Each component plays a key role in adding richness, moisture, or that irresistible crust that makes this dish shine.
- 4 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken: The hearty protein base that makes this casserole satisfying and filling.
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature): Adds luscious creaminess for a smooth texture throughout.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Brings gentle tanginess and a slight curdle that gives body and bite.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Infuses moisture with a rich, slightly tangy depth to brighten the flavors.
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: A comforting savory base that binds everything perfectly together.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle hint of warmth and aromatic punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried onion powder: Adds a gentle, savory sweetness without overpowering the dish.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed): Creates that iconic buttery, crunchy topping that’s impossible to resist.
- 5 tablespoons butter (melted): Ensures the cracker topping browns beautifully and adds richness to every bite.
How to Make Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken Casserole (Million Dollar Chicken Casserole) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Having this ready sets the stage for an easy, stress-free assembly.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and the can of unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup. Stir gently but thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and every ingredient is evenly distributed. This blend of creamy and savory elements is what makes the casserole delightfully comforting.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture Into the Dish
Carefully transfer the creamy chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon to create a uniform layer that will cook evenly and hold together beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until every crumb is coated in that rich, golden goodness. This simple step guarantees the topping will become crisp and irresistibly buttery in the oven.
Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer. Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout, and the topping has turned a stunning golden brown. The smell alone will fill your kitchen with pure comfort.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
Once baked to perfection, allow the casserole to cool just slightly before serving. This ultimate comfort food is ready to be enjoyed, and every spoonful is sure to feel like a little slice of heaven.
How to Serve Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken Casserole (Million Dollar Chicken Casserole) Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to the rich casserole. For an extra touch, a dusting of paprika or a handful of crispy fried onions can add a delightful crunch that balances the creamy filling.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs perfectly with crisp green salads, steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or even a light coleslaw to provide contrast to the richness. Mashed potatoes are also a classic side to double down on the comfort factor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve individual portions in ramekins topped with fresh herbs and a few extra Ritz cracker crumbs. You can also turn leftovers into stuffed bell peppers or use the casserole as a filling for soft tacos for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully overnight, and reheating will bring back that cozy comfort.
Freezing
This chicken casserole freezes wonderfully. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through to maintain that crispy topping. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method preserves the texture best.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! You can roast, poach, or sauté chicken breasts ahead of time. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces for the casserole. Using cooked chicken helps ensure the casserole cooks evenly without drying out.
Is there a substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth. It adds a fresher taste and you can control the salt levels, but the canned soup keeps things quick and easy.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Peas, chopped green beans, or mushrooms can be stirred into the mixture for extra texture and nutrients. Just be mindful of adding moisture-rich veggies like tomatoes that might alter the consistency.
What can I do if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
Crushed buttery crackers or even seasoned breadcrumbs make excellent alternatives. They provide a similar crunchy topping, just adjust the amount of melted butter to ensure crispness.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I add more flavor?
This casserole is mild and creamy, perfect for all palates. If you want a flavor boost, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the mixture, or mix in diced jalapeños for a gentle kick.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken Casserole (Million Dollar Chicken Casserole) Recipe—it’s a blend of cozy, creamy, and crunchy that feels like a loving hug in food form. Once you try it, this casserole will surely earn a permanent spot in your family’s dinner rotation. Go ahead, gather your ingredients, and create a meal that delivers warmth and happiness in every bite.
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Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken Casserole (Million Dollar Chicken Casserole) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 40-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ultimate Comfort Food: Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish combining tender cooked chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and a rich cream of chicken soup base. Topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers, this casserole is baked to golden perfection, offering a warm, hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 4 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried onion powder
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 5 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped cooked chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, dried onion powder, and the can of unsalted cream of chicken soup. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Spread the mixture: Evenly spread the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared 9×9 inch baking dish, smoothing it out for an even layer.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, making sure all the cracker pieces are coated thoroughly. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this comforting and hearty chicken casserole as a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For extra flavor, add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme to the chicken mixture.
- The topping can be made with any buttery crackers if Ritz are not available.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to set before serving.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
