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Pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer Recipe

Pour the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 15 reviews

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich and creamy baked dish featuring tender shredded chicken combined with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, this comforting casserole is ideal for family dinners and gatherings, delivering a deliciously indulgent meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Garnish (optional)

  • Chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Oven Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  3. Fill the Dish: Pour the prepared chicken mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula.
  4. Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted unsalted butter until the crackers are fully coated with butter, creating a crumbly topping mixture.
  5. Add the Topping: Evenly sprinkle the buttered cracker mixture over the chicken filling in the baking dish, covering the surface completely.
  6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the crust topping turns a golden brown color.
  7. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Notes

  • Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives to enhance flavor and presentation.
  • Serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
  • Adding a crunchy breadcrumb or cracker topping before baking adds a delightful texture contrast.
  • For individual servings, portion into ramekins before baking.
  • Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up any sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3-4 days or freeze up to 2-3 months.
  • Reheat covered with foil to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
  • Leftover casserole works great for quick meals and packed lunches.
  • Rotisserie chicken can be used as a time-saving substitution.
  • The casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Pasta variations such as rotini or fusilli can be added for change, cooking them al dente prior.
  • Bacon can be omitted or replaced with vegetables for vegetarian versions.
  • Freezing the casserole before baking is possible; thaw overnight before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, creamy chicken bake, Ritz cracker topping, cheesy chicken casserole, comfort food, easy casserole recipe

Find it online: https://messykitchenmagic.com/pour-the-chicken-mixture-into-your-prepared-baking-dish-smoothing-it-into-an-even-layer-recipe/