This Million Dollar Cheese & Cream Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy delight that makes for a perfect weeknight dinner. Combining tender chicken with a rich sauce, it’s an easy chicken casserole recipe that the whole family will love.
With ingredients like cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise, this dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. Learn how to make Million Dollar Chicken Bake that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Overview of Million Dollar Cheese & Cream Chicken Casserole
The Million Dollar Cheese & Cream Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any family meal. This casserole is a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner, combining tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce that will please even the pickiest eaters.
With its bubbling melted cheese and crispy cracker topping, this dish not only looks inviting but also delivers on flavor. The use of cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise makes it a simple yet delicious option among easy chicken casserole recipes. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole features a harmonious blend of ingredients that contribute to its creamy texture and savory taste. Shredded cooked chicken serves as the base, providing protein and heartiness.
Adding cream of chicken soup and mayonnaise creates a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken, while sour cream enhances the richness. The generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese not only adds flavor but also contributes to the gooey, melty goodness that everyone loves.
Finally, a layer of crushed crackers on top provides a satisfying crunch, making each bite a delightful experience. This combination of flavors and textures makes the Million Dollar Chicken Bake a standout dish among chicken casserole recipes with mayonnaise.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing the Million Dollar Chicken Bake is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Start by preheating your oven and gathering all your ingredients. In just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that will impress your family and friends.
Begin by mixing the shredded chicken with the creamy sauce ingredients in a large bowl. Once everything is well combined, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top it off with crushed crackers and additional cheese before baking. The entire process takes about 50 minutes from start to finish, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is not only delicious on its own but can also be paired with various sides to create a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.
For a cozy family gathering, serve the casserole directly from the rustic baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. This dish is perfect for sharing, making it a wonderful option for potlucks or family get-togethers.
Why It’s a Family Favorite
The Million Dollar Cheese & Cream Chicken Casserole has earned its reputation as a family favorite for several reasons. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor appeal to both children and adults alike, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Moreover, the simplicity of the recipe allows for easy customization. You can add vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition, or swap out the chicken for another protein if desired. This versatility ensures that it can be enjoyed in various ways, keeping mealtime exciting.
Conclusion: A Must-Try Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting and satisfying dish, look no further than the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole. With its creamy filling and crispy topping, this casserole is sure to become a beloved recipe in your household.
Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this easy chicken casserole recipe is a reliable choice that delivers on flavor and comfort. Try it out and see why it’s a go-to dish for many families!
Easy Million Dollar Chicken Bake Recipe
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole features juicy chicken pieces mixed with a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy layer of crackers. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed crackers (like Ritz or saltines)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the chicken mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Crackers: Sprinkle the crushed crackers over the top of the chicken mixture, followed by the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g