Go Back

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

A comforting and joyful family favorite featuring creamy chicken, a golden topping, and an easy preparation that brings everyone together at the table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups cooked shredded chicken Rotisserie chicken makes this a super simple meal; leftover roast chicken works beautifully.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup Use cream of mushroom or celery for a flavor change.
  • 1 cup sour cream Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup mayonnaise Swap half for plain yogurt to cut richness.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar adds brightness; Monterey Jack makes it milder.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Gives a savory, salty finish.
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped Sauté briefly for a sweeter, softer bite.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced As the garlic sizzles, the aroma will fill your kitchen.
  • 2 cups cooked rice or 1 lb egg noodles Rice makes it hearty; noodles make it cozy and familiar.
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs For that signature golden crust; try panko for extra crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter Helps the topping brown.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Optional, for depth.
  • Pinch of smoked paprika Optional, for depth.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with cooking spray.
  2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in a tablespoon of butter until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic for the last minute so it softens but does not burn.
  3. In a big mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, cooked rice or noodles, sautéed onion and garlic, and a pinch of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Topping
  1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter and the remaining cheddar cheese. Scatter this topping evenly over the casserole.
Baking
  1. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden brown. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
  2. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the casserole settles and slices neatly.

Notes

Add cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli for color and nutrition. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers or toasted almond meal for the topping. You can also reheat the casserole perfectly with foil over it at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.