Creamy Chicken Casserole
Hola friends! This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the kind of cozy, creamy dinner that fills your kitchen with the smell of home. Back in my Orlando kitchen, family dinners were always about sharing something warm and comforting, and this recipe delivers exactly that.
It’s rich, cheesy, and layered with tender chicken in a creamy sauce, all topped with a buttery golden crust.
Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this casserole lives up to its name. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s worth a million!
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30–35 minutes |
| Total Time | 45–50 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American |
| Diet | Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free topping) |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra Creamy Texture: Cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar make the perfect trio.
- Simple to Prepare: Just mix, bake, and enjoy, no complicated steps.
- Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Add veggies or switch up the cheeses for variety.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked dish combining tender chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and a buttery golden topping. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 1/2 cups crushed buttered crackers or breadcrumbs
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup until smooth.
3. Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in chicken and half of the cheddar cheese until coated.
5. Pour mixture into prepared dish and spread evenly.
6. In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and remaining cheddar.
7. Sprinkle topping over casserole.
8. Bake 30–35 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
9. Cool 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother base. Do not overmix topping for crunch. Add veggies like broccoli or spinach for color and nutrition. Store leftovers up to 3 days and reheat gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 28
- Saturated Fat: 15
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 110
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups crushed buttered crackers or breadcrumbs
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
Seasonings
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Tips
| Ingredient | Tip Example |
| Chicken | Use shredded rotisserie chicken for quick prep and rich flavor. |
| Cream Cheese | Soften at room temperature for easy mixing. |
| Sour Cream | Full-fat sour cream creates a thicker sauce. |
| Cheddar Cheese | Sharp cheddar gives the casserole a stronger flavor. |
| Crackers | Use buttery crackers for the crispiest golden topping. |
| Butter | Melt fully before mixing with crumbs for even coating. |
| Seasonings | Adjust garlic and onion powder to taste for a deeper flavor. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook and shred your chicken, or use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Make the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then mix to season.
- Combine Chicken and Cheese: Add shredded chicken and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture. Stir until the chicken is well coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine crushed crackers (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter and the remaining cheddar cheese. Mix until crumbly.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and bubbling at the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend and the texture to set.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother blending.
- Do not overmix the topping, keep it loose for crunch.
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked broccoli or peas for color and nutrients.
- Try mixing in two types of cheese for extra depth of flavor.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit before serving to firm up.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, tender chicken for the best taste.
- Crispy Top: Bake uncovered for a perfectly golden topping.
- Flavor Layering: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or dried herbs for a savory twist.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Million Dollar Casserole: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Vegetable Version: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Low-Carb Option: Substitute crushed pork rinds for the topping.
- Buffalo Chicken Style: Mix in buffalo sauce for a zesty twist.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
Prepare the casserole up to the topping step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add the topping and cook as directed. To freeze, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls makes it a complete meal.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this comforting casserole with lemonade, sweet tea, or sparkling cider. For sides, try roasted asparagus, glazed carrots, or mashed potatoes.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes. Add a splash of milk or cream if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but for the best texture and flavor, use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken.
2. How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers for the topping.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Freeze before baking for up to 3 months, then bake straight from frozen for about 15 minutes longer.
4. What other cheeses can I use?
Mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack all melt beautifully.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Cover with foil and warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through.
7. How do I make it creamier?
Add a few tablespoons of heavy cream or extra sour cream before baking.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size | 1 cup |
| Calories | 400 |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 10 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Protein | 30 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.
Author’s Note
In my kitchen, casseroles like this one are pure comfort. I remember watching my mama combine simple ingredients to create the most satisfying dinners. This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is my modern take on those memories, rich, creamy, and filled with love. Every bite feels like a family gathering in a single dish.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, creamy, cheesy, and completely irresistible. It’s easy to make, perfect for gatherings, and guaranteed to become a household favorite.
If you loved this recipe, you’ll also adore my Easy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. It’s another rich and satisfying dish your family will ask for again and again.
