Million Dollar Chicken Casserole-Easy & Delicious

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. The name itself promises something special, and this dish truly delivers! It’s a classic comfort food casserole, perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a potluck gathering. While its exact origins are a bit of a mystery, its popularity speaks volumes. This creamy, cheesy, chicken-filled casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. For another comforting chicken dish, try our Marry Me Chicken Soup recipe.

Why this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is Special

This isn’t your average chicken casserole. The secret lies in the creamy sauce, a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, creating a rich and decadent base. Topped with a generous layer of cheese, every bite is an explosion of flavor and texture, making it truly “million-dollar” worthy.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Million Dollar Chicken Casserole:

Chicken and Base Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (Rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Creamy Sauce Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Cheesy Topping Ingredients

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra cheesy goodness!)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Million Dollar Chicken Casserole:

Preparing the Chicken and Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using raw chicken, cook it thoroughly and shred it. You can boil, bake, or even grill it! In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until softened. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Add the sautéed onions to the chicken mixture and stir well. Looking for a fun way to use leftover chicken? Check out our Chicken Tempura Roll recipe.

Making the Creamy Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until smooth and creamy. For an extra smooth sauce, you can use an electric mixer.

Assembling the Casserole

Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken mixture. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, if using.

Baking and Serving

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy! For a flavorful side dish, try our Best Spicy Vegetables recipe.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the perfect Million Dollar Chicken Casserole:

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is perfect for making ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply take it out of the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. This is a great option for busy weeknights or potlucks. If you enjoy make-ahead meals, our Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles is another great option.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, you can use low-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery. You can also substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. For gluten-free options, ensure your cream of chicken soup and broth are certified gluten-free. For more information on healthy substitutions, check out this article on healthy cooking substitutions from Healthline.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with your cheeses! Try using a blend of Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or even some Gruyère for a more sophisticated flavor. Add some chopped cooked bacon or diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick. Roasted vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli, can also be added for extra nutrients and flavor. For a Southwestern flair, add some corn, black beans, and a sprinkle of chili powder. The possibilities are endless! If you’re looking for more ways to add flavor to your dishes, check out this helpful guide on healthy flavor boosters from Healthline.

What to Serve with Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich and flavorful dish, so it pairs well with lighter sides. Here are a few suggestions:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus add a healthy and flavorful contrast to the creamy casserole. Try our Best Spicy Vegetables Recipe for inspiration.
• Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish. Our Salmon Caesar Salad Recipe offers a delicious and healthy salad option.
• Garlic Bread: Buttery, garlicky bread is a classic comfort food pairing that complements the cheesy flavors of the casserole. Consider making our Garlic Bread Cylinder for a fun twist.
• Steamed Green Beans: Simple, steamed green beans offer a pop of color and a touch of freshness.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is truly a winner. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a taste of pure comfort food bliss. Don’t forget to share your culinary creation with friends and family – they’ll thank you for it!

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