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Million Dollar Chicken Casserole (Ultra Creamy, Comforting & Crowd-Pleasing)

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole earns its name for a reason—it’s rich, creamy, comforting, and always a hit. Made with tender cooked chicken, a trio of creamy cheeses, and a buttery cracker topping, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s the kind of recipe you turn to when you want: A cozy family dinner An easy make-ahead meal A casserole that everyone loves Classic comfort food done right Everything bakes together into a warm, creamy filling with a golden, crunchy topping that seals the deal. Simple ingredients, reliable results, and pure comfort in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
bake time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4½ cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
  • 1 10.5-oz can unsalted cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup cottage cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon dried onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
For the topping:
  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers crushed
  • 5 tablespoons butter melted
  • These ingredients combine to create a luxuriously creamy filling with a crispy buttery finish.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl

Method
 

Step 1:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, and softened cream cheese.
Step 3:
  1. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Step 4:
  1. Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5:
  1. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until well coated.
Step 6:
  1. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
Step 7:
  1. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 8:
  1. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through
Or microwave individual portions in short intervals
🥄 Variations
Extra cheesy: Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella to the filling
Veggie boost: Stir in peas, spinach, or mushrooms
Lighter version: Use low-fat cottage cheese and sour cream
Crunch swap: Use crushed cornflakes instead of crackers
Herb touch: Add dried parsley or thyme
Each variation keeps the casserole comforting, adaptable, and family-approved.
❓ 10 FAQs
Why is it called Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
Because it tastes rich and indulgent with simple ingredients.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, it works perfectly.
Does cottage cheese make it lumpy?
No, it melts into the creamy mixture when baked.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Is this casserole very salty?
No, using unsalted soup keeps it balanced.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze before baking for best texture.
What sides go well with it?
Green beans, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, use a smaller baking dish.
Will the topping stay crispy?
Yes, especially when baked uncovered.
Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s creamy, mild, and comforting.
🏁 Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is classic comfort food at its best—creamy, hearty, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family or bringing a dish to share, this casserole delivers dependable, crowd-pleasing flavor every single time.
It’s rich, cozy, and always worth making.