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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 3–4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for color and warmth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2–1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • 1–2 cups add-ins like cooked rice, cooked egg noodles, or steamed veggies (peas, broccoli, or mixed vegetables), optional
  • 2 cups crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish (optional)
  • Nonstick spray or a little butter for the baking dish

Instructions

  • Preheat and prep. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
  • Soften and whisk the base. In a large bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and mayonnaise until smooth and creamy.
  • Season the mixture. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Taste and adjust salt if needed—especially if your chicken is seasoned.
  • Add the cheeses. Fold in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan until evenly distributed.
  • Stir in the chicken. Mix in the cooked chicken until every piece is coated. If you’re using add-ins like rice, noodles, or veggies, fold them in now. The mixture should be thick but spreadable.
  • Spread in the dish. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Make the crunchy topping. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed crackers with melted butter. Stir until the crumbs look evenly moistened and clump slightly.
  • Top the casserole. Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the chicken layer. Don’t pack them down—light and even is best.
  • Bake. Place the dish on the center rack and bake for 25–35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling at the edges and the topping is golden brown.
  • Rest and garnish. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to set up a bit. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh finish.
  • Serve. Spoon into bowls or plate with a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.