Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious Million Dollar Chicken Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 5-6 slices of bacon (for garnishing)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Million Dollar Chicken Casserole:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper then mix until well blended.
- Step 3: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until completely coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Step 5: Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until it is bubbly and golden on top.
- Step 6: For the crispy bacon garnish, bake the bacon strips on a separate tray at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until well done and golden brown.
- Step 7: Remove the casserole from the oven, and garnish it with the crispy bacon and chopped chives before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish the day before, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking from the fridge.
2. What kind of chicken should I use?
You can use any cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or leftover chicken from another meal.
3. Can I substitute any ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or mayonnaise, and substitute the cheeses based on your preference.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz crackers.
5. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to the dinner table. Whether you’re preparing for a busy family night or a casual gathering, this creamy, cheesy casserole is sure to please. Enjoy the rich flavors, crispy textures, and the joy it brings to your loved ones. Happy cooking!
