Print

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

5 from 115 reviews

Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked dish combining shredded chicken with a rich blend of cream soups, sour cream, and melted butter, topped with a crispy cheddar and breadcrumb crust. Perfect for an easy, comforting family meal that yields a delightful golden topping and a luscious interior.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken is perfect for this!)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Topping

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs (like Italian seasoned or panko)

Garnish (Optional)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  2. Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of chicken soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream until smoothly combined, creating a creamy casserole base.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth, then stir in the melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and black pepper for evenly distributed flavor.
  4. Combine Chicken: Fold the cooked shredded or diced chicken into the sauce mixture, ensuring every piece is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
  5. Incorporate Cheddar: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the chicken and sauce mixture to enhance the cheesy flavor throughout.
  6. Pour into Baking Dish: Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly for uniform cooking.
  7. Prepare Topping: In a separate small bowl, combine the seasoned bread crumbs with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, creating a crunchy, cheesy topping.
  8. Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheddar mixture evenly over the surface of the chicken mixture in the baking dish to form a crispy layer.
  9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling at the edges and the top is golden brown and crispy.
  10. Rest: Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to allow it to set and for flavors to meld before serving.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for freshness and color before serving.

Notes

  • Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.
  • You can substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for a richer casserole.
  • For a lower-fat version, use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
  • Seasoned bread crumbs can be substituted with plain panko plus Italian seasoning if preferred.
  • Letting the casserole rest helps it firm up and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Keywords: Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, cheesy chicken casserole, baked chicken casserole, creamy chicken casserole, easy dinner recipe