Looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner? This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy, and savory casserole that turns rotisserie chicken, cheese, and a few simple ingredients into a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is an ideal choice for anyone who loves comfort food with minimal prep. Follow this easy step-by-step recipe, and get ready to wow your family!
Why You’ll Love Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
This casserole is simple but brings maximum flavor. From the tender chicken to the creamy layers of cheese and sour cream, this dish is irresistible. Here’s why it’s a winner:
- Quick to Prepare: With pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, you’ll save valuable time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loaded with cheese, bacon, and cream, this casserole will be a hit at any dinner table.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or enjoy it on its own – you choose!
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
To make this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of cheddar soup
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Shred the Chicken: Use a rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: For a smoother texture, make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing.
2. Create the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and can of cream of cheddar soup. Stir until the ingredients are fully blended and creamy.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then add the chopped onion and bell pepper.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic (about 4-5 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.
4. Mix Everything Together
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl with the cream cheese mixture.
- Fold in the sautéed onion and bell pepper, stirring until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, using the back of a spoon to flatten it out.
6. Add Cheese and Bacon Topping
- Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Add bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
7. Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle the casserole with fresh green onions or your favorite herbs for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve it warm over rice or pasta, or enjoy it on its own.
Tips for Making the Best Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience, rotisserie chicken saves time and adds delicious flavor.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or extra bacon bits for a crunchy topping.
- Don’t Skip the Vegetables: The sautéed onions and bell peppers add a subtle sweetness and texture, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for serving over:
- Rice: The creaminess pairs beautifully with white or brown rice.
- Pasta: Egg noodles or penne work great for a comforting meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: For an extra-cozy touch, serve it atop mashed potatoes.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Add 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well! Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Certainly. Feel free to add chopped broccoli, mushrooms, or even spinach for a nutritious twist.
Q: Is there a low-fat version of this recipe?
A: To lighten it up, use reduced-fat cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. You can also use a low-sodium soup if desired.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is more than just a weeknight meal; it’s comfort food at its finest. This creamy, cheesy, and easy-to-make dish is perfect for families who crave a meal that’s both hearty and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to casseroles, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
