Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Mix until the crackers are well-coated in butter.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken casserole.
- Add additional shredded cheddar cheese on top of the crackers for extra flavor.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Million Dollar Chicken Casserole!
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
- Chicken Variations: Use leftover turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick meal.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to customize the vegetables; broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers are great options.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a delicious, creamy, and satisfying dish that brings comfort food to a new level. With its cheesy goodness and crispy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty ingredients in this easy-to-make casserole, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends!