Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate in comfort food. Tender shredded chicken is mixed into a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then baked until bubbling and golden under a buttery Ritz cracker topping. It’s quick to prepare, easy to make ahead, and a family favorite for good reason.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and creamy: Made with cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar.
  • Crunchy topping: Buttery crushed crackers add the perfect texture.
  • Versatile: Use rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or cook fresh.
  • Customizable: Add rice, vegetables, or swap ingredients to suit your pantry.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, roughly chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth

For the Casserole:

  • 3 ounces whipped cream cheese
  • ⅔ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • ¾ cup cottage cheese
  • 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
  • ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Topping:

  • 3 cups crushed Ritz crackers
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Chopped scallions (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken

  1. Add chicken thighs, salt, pepper, and olive oil to an Instant Pot. Stir to coat.
  2. Add onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Stir again.
  3. Seal and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Let pressure release naturally.
  4. Remove the chicken and shred using two forks. Set aside and discard the cooking liquid.

No Instant Pot? Boil or bake your chicken until cooked through, then shred.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the whipped cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese until smooth.
  3. Stir in the condensed soup and shredded cheese.
  4. Add shredded chicken, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Mix well.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×9-inch or similar baking dish.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
  3. Spread the buttery crackers evenly over the casserole.
  4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until hot and golden brown on top.
  5. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.

Recipe Variations

  • Add Rice: Stir in 1 cup cooked white or brown rice for a heartier casserole.
  • Add Veggies: Mix in 1 cup cooked broccoli or diced potatoes.
  • Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any favorite shredded cheese.
  • Topping Options: Try crushed pretzels, cornflakes, or potato chips instead of crackers.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Assemble and freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
  • To Reheat: Microwave individual servings until hot, or warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.

Tips for Success

  • For quicker prep, use rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken.
  • Don’t skip the resting time—this helps the casserole firm up for perfect scooping.
  • Add extra seasoning or hot sauce for a bolder flavor if desired.

 

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