Get ready to discover your new favorite comfort food! This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a truly satisfying dinner that brings everyone to the table. It features tender chicken in a rich, creamy, and cheesy sauce, all topped with a buttery, crispy Ritz cracker crust. Preparing this dish is wonderfully straightforward, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
This incredible million dollar chicken casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen. Here’s why it will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Effortlessly Delicious: Despite its name, this casserole is simple to make but tastes incredibly rich and indulgent.
- Simple Ingredients: You’ll find most of what you need already in your pantry, making grocery trips a breeze.
- Versatile for Weeknights: It’s an ideal recipe for those busy evenings when you need a hearty, comforting meal without the fuss.
- Family-Approved: Every bite is pure comfort food that even the pickiest eaters will ask for again and again.
- Great for Make-Ahead Meals: Prepare it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.
Ingredients
To create this delicious million dollar chicken casserole, gather these simple ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 10 slices of beef bacon, cooked until crispy, chopped, and divided
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced and divided
- 30 Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Notes & Substitutions
You have options to customize this dish to your liking! Use pre-cooked chicken, like a rotisserie chicken, to save time on busy days. If you prefer, substitute sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to adjust the flavor slightly. For the cream cheese, full-fat varieties deliver the richest texture, but a reduced-fat option works too. Always shred your own cheddar cheese from a block for the best melt and flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, many cracker brands offer suitable alternatives. You can also experiment with other cream of soups, such as cream of mushroom.
Equipment
You won’t need much specialized equipment to make this easy chicken bake. Just these basic kitchen tools:
- 9×13 inch casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula or spoon
How To Make This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Making this million dollar chicken casserole is a breeze with these step-by-step instructions. Follow along and you’ll have a delightful meal ready for your family!
- Preheat your oven to 350°Fahrenheit and spray a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. This prepares your dish for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Add the cubed chicken breast pieces to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle them with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing carefully to coat evenly.
- Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, room temperature cream cheese, and mayonnaise to the bowl with the seasoned chicken.
- Stir in half of the chopped crispy beef bacon and half of the sliced green onions. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is creamy.
- Spoon the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it into an even layer, ensuring the filling is distributed from edge to edge.
- In a small separate bowl, stir together the crushed Ritz cracker crumbs and the melted butter. Combine them until the crumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken filling in the casserole dish. This creates the signature golden, crispy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is beautifully golden brown.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the creamy sauce set.
- Sprinkle the remaining beef bacon crumbles and green onions over the top of the casserole right before serving for extra flavor and a fresh garnish. Enjoy your delicious million dollar chicken casserole!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving the perfect million dollar chicken casserole is simple with a few extra pointers. For optimal results, particularly with creamy dishes, understanding the importance of room temperature ingredients in baking helps create a smoother consistency.
Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing to prevent lumps and create a smoother consistency. Be mindful of added salt; beef bacon and Ritz crackers already contain sodium, so taste before adding extra salt. Cook your beef bacon until it’s perfectly crispy for the best texture contrast in the casserole. To prevent a dry casserole, avoid overbaking; pull it from the oven once it’s bubbly and golden. For a beautiful golden topping, you can lightly brush the cracker mixture with a bit more melted butter before baking. For a super speedy meal, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
This million dollar chicken casserole is wonderfully versatile for serving and adapting to your needs.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Serving Suggestions:
- Serve it hot over a bed of fluffy white rice or comforting egg noodles to soak up all the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli make excellent vegetable sides.
Make-Ahead:
- Assemble the entire casserole, including the topping, up to one day in advance.
- Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Storage:
- Refrigerate any leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Understanding proper food safety is crucial for enjoying leftovers, and according to Food Network, following USDA recommendations for cooked chicken storage ensures quality and safety for this timeframe.
Freezing:
- Unbaked: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
- Baked: Allow the baked casserole to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat covered in a 300°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: For individual portions, microwave until hot, stirring occasionally.
Variations:
- Keto/Low Carb: Omit the Ritz cracker topping. You can use crushed pork rinds mixed with butter for a similar crunch.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free crackers for the Ritz crackers in the topping.
- Add Veggies: Stir in a cup of frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots along with the chicken mixture for added nutrition and color.
- Different Cheeses: Swap sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for a slightly different flavor profile in your creamy chicken bake.
Nutrition Information
Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate. It can vary based on specific brands of ingredients and preparation methods. This table serves as a general guide.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 628 kcal |
| Carbohydrate Content | 14 g |
| Protein Content | 41 g |
| Fat Content | 45 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 16 g |
| Trans Fat Content | 0.4 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 146 mg |
| Sodium Content | 1294 mg |
| Fiber Content | 1 g |
| Sugar Content | 3 g |
| Unsaturated Fat Content | 24 g |
FAQ
Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, like a rotisserie chicken, is a fantastic shortcut that saves a lot of prep time. Just shred or cube it and add it directly to the mixture.
What is the best way to cook beef bacon for this?
For the best texture, cook your beef bacon until it’s very crispy. You can bake it on a sheet pan or cook it in a skillet, then crumble it finely.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire million dollar chicken casserole (without baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if cold.
How long does million dollar chicken casserole last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftovers are delicious for 3-4 days.
Can I freeze million dollar chicken casserole?
Yes, both baked and unbaked versions freeze well for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Why is my casserole too salty?
The beef bacon, and Ritz crackers contribute significant sodium. To avoid over-salting, taste your creamy chicken mixture before adding extra salt, or use low-sodium versions of soup if preferred.
What sides pair well?
A fresh green salad or some simply steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans or broccoli make excellent, refreshing companions to this rich dish.
Conclusion
This million dollar chicken casserole truly lives up to its name, offering a rich, comforting, and utterly delicious meal that’s surprisingly easy to create. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or whenever you crave a hearty, home-cooked dish. The creamy chicken, savory beef bacon, and irresistible buttery cracker topping will make this a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give this easy recipe a try tonight, and prepare for rave reviews! We’d love to hear your feedback in the comments below. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Equipment
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 10 slices beef bacon, cooked until crispy, chopped, and divided
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced and divided
- 30 Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Main Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the cubed chicken breast pieces to a large mixing bowl, sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then mix carefully to coat evenly.
- Add the cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, mayonnaise, half the chopped beef bacon, and half the green onions to the chicken mixture and combine everything well.
- Spoon the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it into an even layer.
- In a small bowl, stir together the Ritz cracker crumbs and the melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture over the chicken casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to cool for at least 10-15 minutes, then sprinkle the remaining bacon crumbles and green onions over the top right before serving.