Name: Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-482005H9M26S
Total time: PT-482005H9M26S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4½ cups chopped cooked chicken; 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature; 1 cup cottage cheese; ½ cup sour cream; 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup; ¼ tsp garlic powder; ¼ tsp dried onion powder; 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed; 5 Tbsp butter, melted

Looking for a dish that embodies comfort and luxury? Look no further than our Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. This sumptuous recipe combines tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping to create a dish that will leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:

4½ cups chopped cooked chicken

4 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup cottage cheese

½ cup sour cream

1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup

¼ tsp garlic powder

¼ tsp dried onion powder

1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed

5 Tbsp butter, melted

Directions:

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Mix Chicken Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, softened cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and Cream of Chicken Soup. Mix until well blended.

Layer and Spread: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Prepare Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until well combined.

Top and Bake: Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or chives over the casserole just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Pair with Side Dishes: Serve this casserole alongside your favorite side dishes such as steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or fluffy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.

Customize with Toppings: Customize each serving with additional toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and texture.

Serve with Bread or Rolls: Accompany the casserole with warm bread or dinner rolls to sop up the delicious creamy sauce.

Presentation Matters: Transfer individual servings onto plates using a spatula for a neat presentation. Sprinkle extra crushed Ritz crackers on top for an added crunch.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for longer-term storage. Place it in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.

Refresh the Topping: If the Ritz cracker topping loses its crunch after storage, simply sprinkle some extra crushed crackers on top before reheating to revive the texture.

Avoid Overheating: When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the top from becoming too browned or dried out.

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FAQs:

Can I use leftover cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover cooked chicken. Simply chop or shred the leftover chicken and incorporate it into the casserole mixture as directed. It’s a great way to repurpose leftover chicken into a delicious and satisfying meal.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Simply assemble the casserole according to the recipe instructions, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy, remove the casserole from the refrigerator, allow it to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, then bake as directed.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

While this recipe is delicious as written, there’s always room for customization based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. You can experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or mozzarella, or swap out the Cream of Chicken Soup for a different cream-based soup like Cream of Mushroom. Additionally, feel free to add in extra vegetables such as diced bell peppers, peas, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free crackers in place of the Ritz crackers. Additionally, ensure that the Cream of Chicken Soup you use is certified gluten-free or make a homemade gluten-free cream soup alternative. By making these simple substitutions, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors of the casserole while accommodating a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the creamy decadence of our Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. With its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy the taste of luxury with every bite!

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