Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
This 'Million Dollar Chicken Casserole' is a luxurious, comforting dish featuring shredded rotisserie chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made from a blend of soups and cheeses. Seasoned with Creole spices, topped with buttery crackers and mozzarella, it bakes into a bubbly, golden-brown delight, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Equipment
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl For combining the chicken and creamy sauce
- 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish Standard size for this casserole
- 1 Whisk or Rubber Spatula For smooth incorporation of ingredients
- 1 Small Bowl For preparing the cracker topping
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate ingredient portions
Ingredients
Main
- 1 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese at room temperature
- 1.5 teaspoons Creole seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder divided
- 5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 30 buttery round crackers such as Ritz®, crushed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon sliced scallions or to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, softened cream cheese, Creole seasoning, onion powder, and 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Stir the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and chopped fresh parsley into the creamy mixture.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed buttery round crackers with the melted unsalted butter and the remaining 0.5 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken casserole.
- Top the casserole with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish with sliced scallions before serving.
Notes
Ensure your cream cheese is at true room temperature; this is crucial for a smooth, lump-free base when mixing with other creamy ingredients. For an extra layer of flavor and a richer texture, consider adding a touch of dry sherry or white wine to the chicken mixture before baking. Adjust the Creole seasoning to your preference; brands vary in heat and salt content. To achieve a perfectly golden and crisp cracker topping, keep an eye on it during the last 10-15 minutes of baking, and tent loosely with foil if it starts to brown too quickly. Garnish with fresh scallions just before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion note.