Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly rich—this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole lives up to its name! Packed with tender shredded chicken and a velvety blend of sour cream, mayo, and cream of chicken soup, it’s topped with buttery cracker crumbs and melted cheddar for the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick & Easy: Uses pre-cooked chicken and simple pantry staples.
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Ultra Creamy: The sour cream, mayo, and soup base make it rich and luscious.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or make-ahead meals.
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High-Protein Comfort Food: Great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken
Ingredients Breakdown
Chicken Base:
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4 cups cooked chicken (shredded): A hearty and protein-rich foundation; use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience.
Creamy Sauce:
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds creamy texture and savory depth.
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1 cup sour cream & 1 cup mayonnaise: Combine for a rich, tangy, and ultra-smooth consistency.
Seasonings:
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1 tsp garlic powder & 1 tsp onion powder: Boost the savory flavor.
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1 tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper: Essential seasoning balance.
Cheesy Goodness:
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Half goes into the mix for melt-in-your-mouth bites, and the rest tops the casserole for a golden finish.
Crunchy Topping:
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1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz): Delivers that crave-worthy crunch.
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Remaining cheese: Melts into the cracker topping for extra richness.
Garnish (Optional):
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½ cup chopped green onions: Adds freshness and a pop of color before serving
Tips and Tricks
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Use rotisserie chicken to save time and boost flavor.
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Add extra shredded cheese to the topping for a gooey finish.
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Allow the casserole to rest before serving for a thicker, set texture.
Variations and Customizations
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Add Vegetables: Mix in steamed broccoli or frozen peas for added nutrition.
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Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
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Garlic bread or dinner rolls pair perfectly to soak up the sauce.
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A glass of iced tea or a crisp white complements the richness.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
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Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the full dish in the oven at 325°F until hot.
Popular Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, though fresh or rotisserie chicken provides better flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. It’s a great make-ahead freezer meal. Wrap tightly and freeze before baking.