Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a crunchy buttery Ritz cracker topping. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, combining savory flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, cubed and softened at room temperature
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken, cut into ¾-inch cubes
Toppings and Add-ins
- ½ pound bacon, cooked and chopped, divided
- 1 bunch green onions, sliced, divided
- 1 (3 oz) sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 25 crackers)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare casserole dish: Lightly coat a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Mix base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese cubes, mayonnaise, and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until smooth and well blended.
- Season mixture: Add garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the mixture and combine thoroughly for balanced flavor.
- Add chicken and bacon: Incorporate the diced chicken, half of the cooked chopped bacon, and half of the sliced green onions into the mixture. Toss gently to coat the chicken evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish for consistent cooking.
- Bake first layer: Bake the casserole uncovered at 350°F for 40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the mixture is bubbling.
- Prepare cracker topping: While the casserole bakes, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter in a small bowl, mixing well for a flavorful, crunchy topping.
- Stir casserole: After the first bake, gently stir the casserole with a wooden spoon to fully blend the ingredients and ensure even flavor distribution.
- Add cheese and cracker topping: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, then spread the buttered Ritz cracker mixture on top.
- Bake second layer: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes to set.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the remaining cooked bacon and green onions over the top for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve: Serve the casserole warm as a hearty main dish perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Notes
- You can substitute sharp cheddar cheese with medium or mild cheddar based on preference.
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken cubes, adjusting bake time accordingly.
- For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium cream of chicken soup and unsalted butter.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing and better texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness of the topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
