This million dollar chicken casserole is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, creamy, and savory flavor that’s hard to resist. The creamy texture comes from adding cottage cheese, while rotisserie chicken keeps the prep time short and straightforward. Customize it with peas or steamed broccoli for added freshness, and serve it with a side of salad or noodles for a complete, satisfying meal.
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What makes this casserole “million dollars”?
Many wonder why the dish has such a luxurious name, and the answer lies in its rich, creamy texture and indulgent flavours that feel like a “million-dollar” treat. Combining ingredients like cottage cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheese creates a velvety smoothness that coats the tender chicken, making each bite incredibly satisfying. The name also evokes the comfort and richness that makes this casserole feel special, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks where you want to impress guests with minimal effort. It’s a simple dish that gives the impression of being far more expensive and complicated than it is, which adds to its widespread appeal.
Can I use regular chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
A common question revolves around flexibility in the choice of chicken. Rotisserie chicken is often used in Million Dollar Chicken Casserole because it’s a time-saver, providing already cooked and seasoned meat that cuts down on prep time. However, many people ask if they can substitute it with regular chicken. The answer is yes! You can easily use any cooked chicken you have on hand, whether baked, grilled, or boiled. The key is to ensure the chicken is shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces to mix evenly with the other ingredients. Some even prefer using leftover chicken from another meal, adding a bit of personalization to the dish without losing its comforting flavours.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese in this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
One of the most common ingredient questions is about cottage cheese, as not everyone is a fan of its texture or flavour. Fortunately, there are several alternatives. Cream cheese is a popular substitute, offering a similar creamy texture and richer taste. Ricotta cheese is another excellent option, especially for those who prefer a lighter, less tangy flavour. Some people also mix sour cream with cream cheese for a smooth consistency, miming the cottage cheese’s role in creating the casserole’s signature creaminess. This flexibility allows the dish to be easily adapted based on what you have in your fridge or your taste preferences.
Can this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole be made ahead and frozen?
Another frequently asked question centres on meal preparation, mainly whether Million Dollar Chicken Casserole can be made ahead and frozen for future use. The answer is yes, which is part of what makes this dish so convenient. You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. This is especially useful for busy weeknights or when planning meals for gatherings. When ready to bake, just thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight and bake it as instructed. Freezing doesn’t affect the creamy texture or flavour, making it an ideal dish for meal prep without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients List for Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1½ teaspoons Creole seasoning for a flavorful kick
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided for layers of flavour
- 5 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and rich taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 30 buttery round crackers (such as Ritz), crushed for a crispy topping
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted to bind the cracker topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon sliced scallions (adjust to taste) for a fresh garnish
Instructions on how to make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your workspace.
Step 2:
Mix the cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, Creole seasoning, onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder in a medium-sized bowl. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
Step 3:
Gently fold in the shredded chicken and chopped parsley, making sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4:
Combine the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter and the remaining ½ teaspoon of garlic powder in a separate bowl. Stir until the cracker crumbs are fully coated with the butter mixture.
Step 5:
Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 11×7-inch or 9-inch square baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top, then cover with the buttery cracker mixture.
Step 6:
Place the baking dish on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes, or until the cracker topping turns golden and the edges start to bubble. For an optional garnish, sprinkle with sliced scallions before serving.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that combines creamy flavours, hearty ingredients, and a touch of indulgence, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its tender chicken, rich cream sauce, and crunchy topping, this casserole is both comforting and satisfying, sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you serve it on a busy weeknight or a special occasion, Million Dollar Chicken Casserole promises to be a hit that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious meal, and enjoy the warm, welcoming flavours it brings to your table!
If you try this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Feel free to share your experience in the comments below—your feedback will be helpful to others in the community!