Introduction
Welcome to the cozy world of comfort food! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful recipe for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This dish is the epitome of home-cooked goodness, bringing together tender shredded chicken, creamy soup, and a crispy topping that will have you reaching for seconds—if not thirds! Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is sure to impress with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Fold in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing gently to maintain that fluffy texture.
- Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Stir until all the crackers are deliciously coated.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer in the casserole dish.
- Finish by topping with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible gooey finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some diced green peppers or mushrooms to the chicken mixture. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese blend. This casserole is wonderfully versatile; feel free to get creative with the ingredients!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole relies on a simple layering technique that allows the flavors to meld beautifully as it bakes. Make sure to prepare all your ingredients ahead of time to make the assembly as smooth as possible. The key to a perfect casserole is ensuring it is cooked through while maintaining a moist and tender texture.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before popping it in the oven. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook it.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Yes! This casserole freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer. It can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its creamy base, savory flavors, and delightful crunch from the topping, it’s a dish that you and your loved ones will cherish. Serve this comforting casserole for dinner, and watch it disappear! Happy cooking!