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A serving spoon lifts a creamy portion of golden-crusted million dollar chicken casserole from a white baking dish.
Reda

Ultimate Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

A decadently creamy and cheesy chicken casserole featuring a rich blend of cheeses, tender shredded chicken, and a buttery cracker topping. This ultimate comfort food is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 585
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Creamy Chicken Filling
  • 4 cups shredded cooked chicken about 2 lbs, rotisserie chicken works well
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup small curd cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup do not dilute
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese divided
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup green onions chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
For the Buttery Cracker Topping
  • 1.5 cups Ritz crackers crushed (about 1 sleeve)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • 9x13 Inch Casserole Dish
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Prepare Oven and Casserole Base
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup. Use a spatula or an electric mixer on low speed to blend until the mixture is mostly smooth.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, 1/2 cup of chopped green onions, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine.
Assemble the Casserole
  1. Gently fold in the 4 cups of shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of the sharp cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup of the Monterey Jack cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
  2. Pour and spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared 9x13 inch casserole dish.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the chicken mixture.
Add Topping and Bake
  1. In a separate small bowl, prepare the topping by combining the 1.5 cups of crushed Ritz crackers, 1/2 cup of melted butter, and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss with a fork until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
  2. Sprinkle the buttery cracker topping evenly over the layer of cheese on the casserole.
  3. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly around the edges, and the cracker topping is beautifully golden brown.
Rest and Serve
  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Time-Saving Tip: Use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for quick and easy shredded chicken.
Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without the cracker topping), cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the fresh topping and bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the cook time to account for the cold dish.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave.