Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Chicken casseroles can be made a million ways, and this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is just one of many delicious, wonderful, and easy ways to enjoy a hearty meal this week.

A deliciously filling chicken bake, this recipe is perfect for potlucks, parties, and weeknights, with layers of tender chicken breast and buttery Ritz cracker topping.

From million-dollar spaghetti to million-dollar Neiman Marcus dip, there is no shortage of “Million Dollar” Recipes.

Serve this cheesy casserole recipe as a main dish meal, on a sandwich, or directly on chips as a multi-use recipe that makes this one of the best chicken casserole recipes ever. 

Chicken casserole recipes make weeknights easy!

Million-dollar casseroles go great alone—or not. Pairing this creamy casserole with pasta, egg noodles, or rice makes this chicken recipe super hearty.

Totally easy to make, this creamy flavor combination is one of the best weeknight dinner casseroles that brings comfort food to the next level.

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

Simple Ingredients:

• cream of chicken soup
• cottage cheese
• cream cheese
• diced onions
• Seasoning: creole seasoning, garlic powder, dried parsley, and onion powder.
• cooked and shredded chicken
• Buttery crackers (We use Ritz)
• butter melted
• fresh parsley

Fold the shredded chicken into your creamy mixture, making sure it’s well-distributed throughout.

Spread the chicken and cream mixture evenly into your greased baking dish.

For the topping, crush the Buttery Ritz Crackers gently (you can do this quickly in the sleeve, but be cautious as it might tear). Then, combine the crushed crackers with the Melted Butter in a small bowl, ensuring all the crumbs are coated with butter.

Sprinkle the buttery cracker crumbs over the top of the chicken mixture in the baking dish.

Serving million dollar casserole leftovers

Serving casserole leftovers for next-day dinner can be just as delicious as enjoying the dish fresh out of the oven. When it comes to reheating leftover Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, the key is to retain its moisture and creamy texture.

A simple trick is to stir a small amount of milk into the casserole before reheating. This helps to rehydrate the ingredients and prevent the casserole from drying out. For best results, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or a piece of parchment paper to trap steam and evenly warm the casserole.

Microwave in short intervals, stirring gently in between, until it’s heated through. This method ensures your leftovers remain just as savory and satisfying as the first serving.

Best Casserole Variations

• Ranch Seasoning Swap: For a twist, replace the traditional seasonings with a package of ranch seasoning. This simple substitution infuses your casserole with a tangy flavor that complements the creamy texture perfectly.

• Cheese, please: Add richness to your casserole by adding a layer of shredded cheddar cheese beneath the buttery cracker topping. The cheese melts into a gooey delight, creating a mouthwatering crisp topping. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses, like Colby Jack or Mozzarella, to find your perfect cheesy blend.

• Bacon Makes Everything Better: Just before serving, add a sprinkle of pre-made crispy bacon for a salty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole. Whether you prefer oven-baked, pan-fried, or air-fried bacon, this addition brings a smoky flavor that elevates the dish. (we have many ways to make bacon, like here, here, and here) before serving.

• Ricotta for Cottage Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cottage cheese or want to try something different, ricotta cheese is an excellent substitute. Its mild flavor blends well into the casserole, offering a subtle, just as delicious variation.

This dish is perfect for using leftover rotisserie chicken and makes the ultimate comfort food. 

Not listed, but fine to use are black pepper and, of course, season with salt. I leave these optional as soups usually have a high sodium content.

Serve with these Side Dish Recipes

Chicken casserole dishes are relatively devoid of color. Adding vegetable side dishes ensures the plate is healthy, bright, and inviting. Try one of our favorite sides below: 

Did you know you can dice green beans? Skip the long stringy green beans and opt for a spoon full of diced green beans and bell peppers for a unique and tasty dish. 

Sauteed carrots stove top are easy to make alongside a million-dollar chicken bake recipe and do not require an oven. 

Fiesta Corn Salad and copycat 1905 salad bring brightness and cold salad to the plate. Plus, as a bonus, both make great lunch leftovers.