Description
Rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible, this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With layers of seasoned rice, tender chicken, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping, this dish is easy to make and guaranteed to please. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice (16 oz | 450 g)
- 3 cups shredded chicken (1 lb | 450 g)
- 1 cup cream cheese, divided (8 oz | 225 g)
- 1 cup cottage cheese, divided (8 oz | 225 g)
- 1 (14 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced onion
- 20–25 Ritz crackers, crushed
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- Dried herbs and garlic powder (optional, for cracker topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 355°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a small amount of butter. - Prepare the Rice Layer:
- In a medium bowl, mix the cooked rice with ½ cup of cream cheese and ½ cup of cottage cheese.
- Spread the rice mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish using a spatula.
- Prepare the Chicken Layer:
- In another medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the remaining ½ cup of cream cheese, ½ cup of cottage cheese, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, and minced onion.
- Spread the chicken mixture over the rice layer in the baking dish.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for 30–35 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbly and heated through.
- Add the Ritz Cracker Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. For added flavor, you can stir in dried herbs and a pinch of garlic powder.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Final Bake:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm and savor every creamy, crunchy bite!
Notes
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for this recipe and saves time.
- Add Vegetables: Sautéed spinach or broccoli can be added to the layers for extra nutrients.
- Cheesy Boost: For an even creamier texture, mix ½ cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the chicken mixture.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble the casserole without the cracker topping and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American