Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy ingredients, and a crispy topping. This casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, and its rich flavors will make you want to come back for more. It is easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. First, it is packed with flavor and comfort food goodness that will satisfy everyone at the table. Secondly, it is easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer extra cheese or different spices, this recipe can adapt to your taste. Finally, it is a great way to use leftover chicken and make a dish that feels special without a lot of effort.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
To make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, you will need to prepare the chicken, mix the creamy ingredients, and layer everything with a crunchy topping. The steps are simple and straightforward, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.
Ingredients:
- 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
- 3 ounces whipped cream cheese
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup cottage cheese
- 10.5 ounces can of condensed cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 cups crushed Ritz crackers
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- Scallions (optional garnish)
Directions:
Make the Shredded Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with ¾ teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. In a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onion is soft. Add the chicken and chicken broth to the skillet. Cover and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked (about 20 minutes). Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.
Assemble and Bake: In a large bowl, mix the whipped cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and the remaining seasonings (1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano). Stir in the shredded chicken until well combined. Pour the mixture into a baking dish. In another bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Once your casserole is baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, and if desired, garnish with chopped scallions for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces before cooking.
- You can substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breast if you prefer a leaner option.
- Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Variation
For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and cottage cheese. You can also use whole-grain crackers for the topping to boost the fiber content.
FAQs
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, using shredded leftover chicken is a great way to save time. Just skip the shredding step and mix it directly into the creamy ingredients.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.
Q: What side dishes go well with Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
A: This casserole pairs well with a light salad, green beans, or garlic bread. Choose sides that complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
- 3 ounces whipped cream cheese
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup cottage cheese
- 10.5 ounces can of condensed cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 cups crushed Ritz crackers
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- Scallions (optional garnish)
Instructions
Make the Shredded Chicken
- Season the chicken thighs with ¾ teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onion is soft.
- Add the chicken and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked (about 20 minutes).
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.
Assemble and Bake
- In a large bowl, mix the whipped cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and the remaining seasonings (1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano).
- Stir in the shredded chicken until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- In another bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
