I love how rich, creamy, and comforting this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is. Every time I make it, the combination of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a buttery topping feels like pure comfort food. It’s the kind of dish I put on the table when I want something cozy, filling, and guaranteed to make everyone happy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to put together with simple ingredients. I can make it ahead of time, it feeds a crowd, and it always comes out creamy and satisfying. I also enjoy how flexible it is, since I can tweak the topping or cheeses based on what I have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup sour cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, I mix the sour cream, softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until everything is smooth and well combined. I then fold in the cooked chicken until it’s evenly coated.
I spread the mixture into a greased baking dish, making sure it’s level. In a small bowl, I mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle this evenly over the top. I bake the casserole uncovered for about 30 to 35 minutes, until it’s bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Servings And Timing
I usually make this casserole to serve about 6 people.
Prep time: around 10 minutes
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes
Variations
I sometimes swap the cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend for a slightly different flavor. When I want extra richness, I add a bit of grated onion or a pinch of paprika. I also like using crushed Ritz-style crackers for a buttery, crunchy topping, but breadcrumbs work just as well.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or I use the microwave for quick portions. I like covering it loosely so it stays moist.
FAQs
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
I often use rotisserie chicken because it saves time and adds great flavor.
Will Grated Onion Spoil The Recipe?
I’ve added grated onion before, and it blends in nicely without spoiling the texture or taste.
Is It Better With Crackers Or Breadcrumbs?
I prefer crackers for a richer, buttery topping, but breadcrumbs give a lighter crunch.
Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?
I sometimes assemble it a day ahead, cover it, and bake it when I’m ready.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
I freeze it before baking, then thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole because it’s simple, comforting, and always a hit. I enjoy how easy it is to customize and how satisfying it feels straight out of the oven. It’s one of those recipes I know I’ll make again and again.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked dish made with tender chicken, a rich cheese mixture, and a buttery cracker topping. It’s easy to prepare, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup sour cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup cottage cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, cottage cheese, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Fold in the cooked chicken until evenly coated.
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish and level the top.
In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and lightly golden.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep and extra flavor.
Swap cheddar for mozzarella or a cheese blend to vary the taste.
Add grated onion or a pinch of paprika for extra depth.
Crushed Ritz crackers make a rich topping, but breadcrumbs work too.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
