This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Packed with tender shredded chicken, a blend of creamy cheeses, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping, it’s a dish that will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this casserole is sure to impress.

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a delicious, cheesy, and comforting twist on traditional casseroles. The combination of rotisserie chicken, creamy sauces, and crispy cracker topping creates an irresistible dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. The creamy base is balanced by the savory kick from Creole seasoning, while the buttery cracker topping adds a perfect crunch. Plus, it's easy to make, and it comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
½ cup cottage cheese
½ cup sour cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 ½ teaspoon Creole seasoning
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
30 buttery round crackers (e.g., Ritz), finely crushed
4 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon sliced scallions (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish (11x7 inches or 9-inch square) or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Creamy Base: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, Creole seasoning, onion powder, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Incorporate the Chicken: Gently fold in the shredded chicken and parsley, making sure the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers, melted butter, and the remaining ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, then add the cracker topping in an even layer.
Bake: Place the casserole on a foil-lined baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced scallions, if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add Vegetables: You can add veggies like broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
Use Different Crackers: If you're not a fan of Ritz crackers, try other buttery crackers like Saltines or even a crushed-up bag of potato chips for a different texture.
Swap Chicken: Instead of rotisserie chicken, you can use cooked chicken breast or even turkey for a different flavor profile.
Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use cooked and shredded frozen chicken. Just make sure it’s fully thawed before mixing it into the casserole.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to allow extra baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

4. What can I use if I don’t have cottage cheese?

If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese or even cream cheese for a smoother texture.

5. Is there a way to make this recipe lower in calories?

You can lighten up this casserole by using reduced-fat sour cream, cream cheese, and cottage cheese. You could also use a lower-calorie cracker option.

6. Can I add more cheese to the casserole?

Yes! If you're a cheese lover, you can add more mozzarella or even some cheddar for a different flavor profile.

7. Can I make this recipe without garlic powder?

If you're not a fan of garlic, you can omit the garlic powder and still enjoy a delicious casserole. You can replace it with a bit of fresh herbs or other seasonings.

8. Can I use a different type of cracker for the topping?

Yes, you can use any buttery cracker you like, such as Saltines, Club crackers, or even crushed-up tortilla chips for a unique twist.

9. How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a bit of cayenne pepper to the creamy mixture.

10. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger casserole dish. Just make sure to adjust the baking time if necessary.

Conclusion

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is an indulgent, comforting dish that will please any crowd. Its creamy chicken filling and buttery, crispy topping make it a family favorite that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this casserole will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for dinner.