Million Dollar Chicken Casserole has a special place in my heart—and on my dinner table. With its creamy layers and topping that delivers just the right amount of crunch, this dish has become a staple comfort food for many families, including my own. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, preparing a cozy family gathering, or looking for a make-ahead meal that can easily feed a crowd, this casserole ticks all the boxes. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to whip up, making it the perfect recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Why you’ll love this dish

You might be wondering what makes this casserole stand out amidst all the other chicken dishes out there. For starters, its combination of flavors and textures—think tender, juicy chicken enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with golden, buttery Ritz crackers—offers a delightful tasting experience. This dish is exceptionally quick to prepare and budget-friendly, always a plus when feeding hungry mouths.

Many people enjoy serving this dish on hectic weeknights when time is tight but the family still wants something satisfying. And, truth be told, kids go wild for it! It’s a guaranteed pleaser that even the pickiest of eaters will devour.

"This casserole has been my go-to for family gatherings! It’s easy to make, and everyone loves it—it truly feels like a million bucks!"

The cooking process explained

Let’s break down how this delicious casserole comes to life. It starts with some basic prep—shredding the chicken and mixing up the creamy filling—which takes just a few minutes. Then, you’ll combine all those lovely ingredients and layer them into your casserole dish. The best part? You only need one pan to create this delightful meal. Once it’s in the oven, you can sit back and relax while the magic happens!

What you’ll need

This recipe requires some straightforward ingredients that you might already have at home. Here’s your shopping list:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a rich and creamy filling that’s hard to resist! If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken makes an excellent substitute to save you from cooking DIY chicken.