Welcome to a recipe that’s been cherished in kitchens for generations – the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This dish combines the comforting flavors of chicken, cream cheese, and a buttery cracker crust to create a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving some homemade comfort food, this casserole is the perfect choice. Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the buttered cracker crumbs over the top of the chicken mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cracker topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add some vegetables to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition. Chopped broccoli, peas, or spinach work well in this recipe.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan can all be used in place of or in addition to the cream cheese and cottage cheese.
- Spice It Up: Add some heat to the casserole by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Herb Substitutions: Don’t have dried parsley on hand? You can use dried thyme, oregano, or basil instead for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a chilled casserole.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then tightly wrap individual portions or the entire dish in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken? A: Yes, leftover turkey works wonderfully in this recipe. Simply substitute an equal amount of chopped turkey for the chicken, and you’re good to go.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly? A: While this casserole contains some ingredients that are not typically considered keto-friendly, such as Ritz crackers and cream of chicken soup, you can make keto-friendly substitutions. Replace the Ritz crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour and use a homemade keto-friendly cream of chicken soup recipe.
Q: How can I make a low-carb version of this casserole? A: To make a low-carb version, skip the Ritz crackers altogether or use a low-carb cracker substitute. Additionally, ensure that the cream of chicken soup you use is low in carbs or make your own using keto-friendly ingredients.
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a timeless classic that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. With its creamy, savory goodness and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely gatherings with loved ones. Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and make it your own – after all, the best recipes are the ones that reflect your unique tastes and preferences. Give this casserole a try and savor every delicious bite!
