Million Dollar Chicken Casserole the Comfort Food Classic
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: Meet the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole!
Ever wondered what comfort food royalty tastes like? Well, let me introduce you to the million dollar chicken casserole . This isn't literally worth a million quid (unless you're using gold plated chickens!), but the flavour definitely punches above its weight.
It's a creamy, cheesy dream, packed with chicken and topped with buttery crackers. Proper lush!
Why This Chicken Casserole Is Boss
Think of this dish as a warm hug on a plate. It's a classic for a reason. While its origins are shrouded in mystery, this comfort food casserole has been a potluck favourite for yonks.
It's the creamy chicken casserole recipe that everyone asks for.
This recipe is seriously easy. We're talking ready in under an hour, even if you're a total beginner. Prep time? Just a cheeky 20 minutes.
The easy casserole recipes don't get much better than this. This cheesy chicken bake comfortably feeds 6-8 hungry souls. Perfect for a weeknight chicken dinner ideas or a casual weekend get-together.
Benefits? Oh, There Are Loads!
One big win? It's packed with protein, thanks to the chicken . A chicken dinner recipes this good are hard to come by.
This particular recipe stands out because it uses simple, readily available ingredients. You can even use a rotisserie chicken casserole to save time.
It's the ultimate in quick and easy casserole . Plus, it's endlessly adaptable. More on that later!
Ingredients & Equipment for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole . Honestly, it's simpler than you think! Think of it as the best of easy casserole recipes meeting comfort food casserole .
This is a classic chicken casserole , so nothing too fancy.
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Cheese & Creaminess
Okay, first up, the stars of the show. This is a guide to get the best chicken dinner recipes . For this creamy chicken casserole recipe
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of unsalted butter. Go for good quality; it makes a difference!
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, chopped. About 1 cup (150g) .
- Cream Cheese: 1 (8-ounce/225g) package. Crucially, soften it first! Trust me, your arms will thank you.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 (10.75-ounce/305g) can. It’s a classic for a reason.
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml) . Adds a lovely tang.
- Milk: 1/4 cup (60 ml) . Whole milk is best, but whatever you have is fine.
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon . Don't skip it!
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon . Freshly ground is always better.
- Chicken: 3 cups (approx. 450g) cooked, shredded or diced. Rotisserie chicken casserole ? Oh my gosh, yes! Makes life so easy.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (approx. 100g) shredded. Sharp cheddar is my go-to.
- Diced Tomatoes and Green Chiles (Optional): 1 (10-ounce/283g) can. If you like a little kick, add it!.
Cracker Topping
- Buttery Round Crackers: 1 sleeve (approx. 40 crackers/140g) . I grew up with Ritz, honestly!
- Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons (85g) , melted. Don't scrimp on the butter.
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Power Ups
This isn't just any cheesy chicken bake ; this is your bake!. For your weeknight chicken dinner ideas , you can change it based on your needs!.
I like to add a pinch of smoked paprika sometimes. Also, dried thyme works wonders here. Don't be afraid to experiment!.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make this easy casserole . These are all the essential tools.
- 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. This is the perfect size.
- Large skillet. For sautéing the onion.
- Mixing bowls. To combine the ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Accuracy is key!.
- Potato masher or fork. For crushing the crackers. Use a food processor if you have one.
Honestly, this million dollar chicken casserole is so easy. It's the perfect dish to make when you need something comforting and delicious! This easy casserole recipes will become a chicken dinner recipes staple.
Cooking Method: Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Magic
Ever wonder how some dishes become legendary? This million dollar chicken casserole is one of those. It’s not actually worth a million quid, mind you.
But it tastes like it should be. Think layers of pure, cheesy comfort. This isn't just any chicken casserole ; it's the comfort food casserole that makes you feel all warm inside.
I’ve made this countless times for potlucks. It’s always a hit. Honestly, it’s easier than a proper Sunday roast, too.
Now, let's learn how to make the perfect cheesy million dollar chicken casserole .
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
First, mise en place is key, yeah? This is about being organised. Chop one medium yellow onion. Then, soften one 8-ounce package of cream cheese.
Get your other ingredients measured. This saves you a ton of time later.
Safety wise, not much to worry about here, but always wash your hands before cooking. Seriously.
step-by-step Process: Casserole Time
Ready to roll? Here’s how it goes:
- Preheat oven to 350° F ( 175° C) .
- Sauté chopped onion in 2 tablespoons of butter until softened. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Mix softened cream cheese, one 10.75-ounce can of cream of chicken soup, ½ cup sour cream, ¼ cup milk, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon pepper in a bowl.
- Add sautéed onion, 3 cups of cooked chicken (rotisserie is the bomb), 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and optional diced tomatoes with green chiles. Mix well.
- Crush one sleeve of buttery crackers, then mix with 6 tablespoons of melted butter.
- Pour the chicken mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle cracker topping evenly.
- Bake for 25- 30 minutes , until topping is golden and bubbly.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Casserole
Using rotisserie chicken? Absolute game changer for this recipe! It adds amazing flavour. Don't overbake, or the chicken can dry out.
This is one of the most common mistakes. For a make-ahead option, assemble the chicken casserole the day before. Just don't add the topping until you’re ready to bake.
This Easy casserole is great for Weeknight chicken dinner ideas . Enjoy this amazing Chicken Dinner Recipes dish. It’s the best Chicken Recipes Casserole you'll ever try! And, honestly, with the Creamy chicken casserole recipe , you can not go wrong!
Recipe Notes for Your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Okay, let's chat about some extra bits for your million dollar chicken casserole . These are like the behind the-scenes secrets. They'll help you make this easy casserole even more amazing! Honestly, I've learned these tips the hard way.
So you don't have to.
Serving It Up Right: Plating and Presentation
Want to make your creamy chicken casserole recipe look fancy? Think about colour. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a vibrant touch.
Honestly, presentation matters! A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken casserole . It cuts through the creaminess.
I always serve mine with steamed green beans. Simple, easy, and done.
Keeping It Fresh: Storage Tips
This comfort food casserole is great for leftovers. But you need to store it right. Let it cool. Then, cover it tightly.
Refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freezing is your friend! Freeze individual portions for an easy lunch.
When reheating, cover with foil. This prevents the topping from burning. Reheat at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through.
Typically 20- 25 minutes .
Mix It Up: Variations on a Theme
Want to change things up? You can. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers. Easy peasy! You can swap out the cheddar for Monterey Jack.
Makes it mild. Add some jalapenos! This gives it a kick. For a chicken dinner recipes option, consider using rotisserie chicken! I mean, who has time to bake chicken these days?.
Rotisserie chicken is the MVP.
Nutrition Lowdown: Simplified Info
Let's be real, this isn't exactly health food. However, it does pack protein from the chicken. Calcium from the cheese.
This cheesy chicken bake is all about balance, you know? Portion control is key! A small serving is satisfying. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet, and don't sweat it! Think of it as a treat.
So, there you have it! Loads of tips to help you nail this chicken casserole . With a few tweaks, you can customize it to your liking.
Don't be afraid to experiment! This weeknight chicken dinner ideas is supposed to be fun. Enjoy creating your own million dollar chicken casserole .
You got this!. Plus it falls under easy casserole recipes so what can go wrong!. It's bound to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this million dollar chicken casserole actually worth a million dollars? (Asking for a friend...)
Well, unless you’re using Beluga caviar instead of cheddar, probably not! But the name comes from the fact that it tastes incredibly rich and satisfying. Think of it as a taste sensation fit for the Queen, but without the royal price tag!
Can I make million dollar chicken casserole ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole (without the cracker topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, add the cracker topping and bake as directed.
Just give it an extra 5-10 minutes in the oven to make sure it's heated through nobody wants a lukewarm casserole!
What's the best way to store leftover million dollar chicken casserole?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or bake the whole casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Note that the cracker topping might lose some of its crispness upon reheating, but it will still taste delicious.
I'm watching my waistline. Are there any healthy swaps I can make in this million dollar chicken casserole recipe?
You bet! You can use light cream cheese and sour cream, reduced fat cheddar, and whole wheat crackers for the topping. You could also add some extra veggies like chopped broccoli or spinach to bulk it up and add nutrients.
It won't be quite as decadent, but it'll still be a tasty and satisfying meal that's a bit kinder to your figure.
My crackers always seem to burn on top! How can I prevent that with this million dollar chicken casserole?
A trick many bakers use to save an over browning top is to tent the casserole with foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will prevent the topping from burning while allowing the casserole to heat through. Another tip is to use a lower oven rack position.
This will distance the casserole from the top heating element and reduce the risk of burning.
Can I freeze million dollar chicken casserole?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole in a freezer safe dish, but don't add the cracker topping yet. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
Then, add the cracker topping and bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting from cold.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole The Comfort Foo
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30-40g |
| Fiber | 0g |