Imagine a dish so delicious, it’s worth a million dollars. That’s what you get with the million dollar chicken casserole. It’s a winner that’s easy to make and won’t break the bank.
You can make it with things you already have at home. It costs almost nothing to make. You’ll need just 20 minutes to prepare and about 45 minutes to cook. This means you can have a delicious dinner ready in no time, serving 12 people.
The million dollar chicken casserole is great for any night of the week or a special event. Its creamy, cheesy, and flavorful taste makes it a favorite. When you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a million dollar dish.
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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender shredded chicken, this easy casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With simple pantry staples and just a few steps, you’ll have a rich and satisfying meal that tastes like a million bucks!
Ingredients
-
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
-
For the Topping:
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well-mixed.
- Layer the casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Monterey Jack cheese over the top.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir in bacon bits (if using).
- Add the topping: Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole (without the topping), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
- Variations:
- Add cooked pasta or rice to make it heartier.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
- Swap Ritz crackers for panko breadcrumbs for a crispier topping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Hearty Dishes
- Cuisine: American
Table of Contents
What Makes Million Dollar Chicken Casserole So Special
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is loved by many. It’s often linked to million dollar chicken casserole jamie oliver recipes. Its creamy, cheesy taste makes it a hit. It’s quick to make, perfect for busy families.
It became famous on social media. Food lovers share and review it. Chicken, cream cheese, and noodles make it a filling meal, known as million dollar chicken casserole with noodles.
The Story Behind the Name
The name “Million Dollar” suggests luxury, but this casserole is affordable. Its rich flavor is thought to have inspired the name. It’s a dish that tastes like it’s worth a lot, but it’s easy to make.
Why This Recipe Became a Social Media Sensation
Its popularity on social media comes from its simplicity. It uses common ingredients. People also love to add their own twist, keeping it fresh and exciting.
Essential Ingredients for Your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
To make a tasty million dollar chicken casserole, you need some key ingredients. You’ll need cream of chicken soup, shredded rotisserie chicken, and a mix of cheeses. The version with mayonnaise adds a creamy touch.
The following table lists the essential ingredients you will need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream of chicken soup | 2 cans (10.5 oz each) |
| Shredded rotisserie chicken | 4 cups |
| Cooked bacon | 1 pound |
| Monterey Colby jack cheese | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious million dollar chicken casserole. It’s perfect for family and friends. The mix of cream of chicken soup, shredded chicken, and cheese is rich and satisfying. It’s a winner whether you make it Southern Living style or with mayonnaise.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
To make the million dollar chicken casserole, start by heating your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish. This helps the casserole cook evenly and prevents it from sticking.
Prepare the chicken by cooking and shredding or dicing it. You’ll need about 3 cups of cooked chicken. While the chicken cooks, mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, and other ingredients for the sauce.
Preparing the Chicken
This step is key to making the casserole. Cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked and cut into small pieces.
Creating the Signature Sauce
The sauce makes the casserole creamy and delicious. Mix the cream of chicken soup, milk, and other ingredients. Adjust the milk to get the right sauce consistency.
Assembly Instructions
Now, it’s time to put the casserole together. Start with a layer of cooked rice, then chicken, and then sauce. Keep adding layers until you use all the ingredients. Finish with a layer of cheese on top.
Baking Tips for Perfect Results
To get perfect results, bake the casserole at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly. You can also add crushed crackers on top for crunch.
Here is a summary of the ingredients and instructions in a table format:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | 3 cups |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 10-ounce can |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Crushed Crackers | 1 cup |
By following these steps and using the right ingredients, you can make a delicious casserole. The casserole with rice is a great variation. It’s perfect for any meal.
Time-Saving Tips and Make-Ahead Options
Preparing a million dollar chicken casserole no cottage cheese can be quick. Use a slow cooker to save time. Just mix the ingredients, add them to the slow cooker, and cook on low for 2 hours. This way, the flavors blend well.
Another great idea is to make the casserole ahead of time. You can put everything together, except the topping, and chill or freeze it. This is ideal for busy days when you need a fast, tasty meal. Using pre-cooked chicken also cuts down on prep time.
Here are more tips to save time:
* Cook the chicken and make the sauce ahead of time.
* Use pre-cooked chicken or leftovers to save cooking time.
* Put the casserole together and chill or freeze it until baking time.
These tips help you enjoy a tasty million dollar chicken casserole no cottage cheese without spending too long cooking.
Popular Recipe Variations
There are many ways to make the million dollar chicken casserole. You can add noodles for a cozy meal. Or, try Jamie Oliver’s version for a unique twist.
Some popular changes include:
- Southern Living’s classic version, which features a creamy sauce and crunchy topping
- Pioneer Woman’s twist, which adds some spicy kick to the traditional recipe
- Jamie Oliver’s international take, which incorporates global flavors and ingredients
These changes let you make a casserole that fits your taste. Try new ingredients and flavors to make it yours.
With so many choices, you can try a new recipe every time. Whether you like a classic or something new, there’s a recipe for you.
| Recipe Variation | Ingredients | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Southern Living’s Classic | Chicken, noodles, creamy sauce | 30-35 minutes |
| Pioneer Woman’s Twist | Chicken, noodles, spicy sauce | 30-35 minutes |
| Jamie Oliver’s International Take | Chicken, noodles, global ingredients | 30-35 minutes |
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
Your million dollar chicken casserole is ready. Now, think about what to serve with it. Garlic bread or a green salad are good choices, as suggested. The casserole with rice is perfect for a main dish. Pair it with various sides for a complete meal.
Here are some great pairings for your casserole:
- Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or carrots
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette
Adding garnishes can make your dish look better. Try these ideas:
- Chopped green onions or parsley
- Shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
Be creative with your sides and don’t be afraid to try new things. These ideas will help you make a delicious meal. It will impress your family and friends.
| Side Dish | Description |
|---|---|
| Garlic Bread | A classic side dish that pairs well with the million dollar chicken casserole |
| Green Salad | A light and refreshing side dish that complements the rich flavors of the casserole |
| Roasted Vegetables | A healthy and flavorful side dish that adds some color and texture to the meal |
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing and reheating your million dollar chicken casserole is key. It keeps the dish creamy and cheesy. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for 2-3 months. Wrap it in plastic or foil and put it in a freezer-safe bag.
To reheat, use the oven or microwave. Preheat the oven to 350°F and heat for 15-20 minutes. For the microwave, heat on high for 2-3 minutes. You can also make it ahead and store it before baking.
| Storage Method | Storage Time | Reheating Method | Reheating Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fridge | Up to 3 days | Oven | 15-20 minutes |
| Freezer | Up to 2-3 months | Microwave | 2-3 minutes |
Follow these tips to enjoy your casserole anytime. It will stay delicious and creamy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a million dollar chicken casserole, avoid common mistakes. Overcooking the pasta is a big one. It makes the casserole dry and not tasty. Cook the noodles until they are al dente, then set them aside.
Using low-quality ingredients is another mistake. For a great casserole, use fresh and high-quality chicken, noodles, and cheese. This makes the dish rich and flavorful.
To fix common issues, check the temperature and cooking time. If it’s not cooking right, adjust the oven or cooking time. Also, don’t overmix the ingredients to keep the texture right.
Ingredient Substitution Pitfalls
Be careful when substituting ingredients in a chicken casserole recipe. Low-fat cheese and low-sodium chicken broth can ruin the flavor and texture. Stick to high-quality ingredients and follow the recipe closely.
Temperature Control Tips
To cook the casserole perfectly, follow these tips. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook the casserole for 30-40 minutes. Check the internal temperature to make sure it’s at least 165°F.
Health and Dietary Modifications
You can change the million dollar chicken casserole recipe to fit your diet. For less calories, use less cheese or pick a lighter cheese. You can also make it gluten-free by using gluten-free rice and checking the salsa and cheese ingredients.
To make it dairy-free, swap the cheese for soy cheese or vegan mozzarella. Here are some tips for these changes:
- Use gluten-free rice to make the dish gluten-free
- Opt for low-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative to reduce calories
- Choose salsa that is low in sugar and made with natural ingredients
Also, you can make these swaps:
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Regular cheese | Dairy-free cheese alternative |
| Gluten-containing rice | Gluten-free rice |
| High-sugar salsa | Low-sugar salsa |
These changes let you enjoy the recipe while meeting your dietary needs. You can pick from many options, like lower-calorie, gluten-free, or dairy-free.
Conclusion: Making Your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole a Family Favorite
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is more than a tasty dish. It’s a recipe that has won the hearts of many home cooks in America. Its creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors make it a favorite in any home.
It’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Your family will love its rich, satisfying taste. This million dollar chicken recipe winner is sure to please.
Now, you have all the steps to make this beloved casserole in your kitchen. From preparing the chicken to layering the flavors, it’s easy and hassle-free. So, why not try it tonight and see the magic of the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole for yourself?