Hey there! I just have to share this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole recipe with you because it has quickly become one of our family favorites! It’s so creamy and comforting, and it feels a bit fancy, but trust me—it’s super easy to make. Picture this: tender chicken, rich cheese, and a crispy topping that just makes you want to dive right in. My husband and I love making this on those busy weeknights when we want something hearty and delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
I first discovered this recipe at a potluck, and I couldn’t believe how quickly it disappeared! Everyone was raving about it, and I knew I had to try making it at home. It’s honestly perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or just a cozy night in with our cat curled up beside us. If you love creamy dishes that are guaranteed to please, this one’s for you! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you might also want to try my easy garlic bread on the side—it pairs perfectly!
Why You’ll Love This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
- Rich and creamy texture with a perfect blend of cheeses
- Hearty meal packed with shredded chicken and pasta
- Easy one-bowl preparation makes cleanup a breeze
- Kid-friendly flavors everyone will love
- Great for meal prep—perfect for leftovers!
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or additional seasonings
- Golden, bubbly cheesy topping gives it an irresistible finish
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines comforting flavors, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or potlucks!
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a total crowd-pleaser! It’s creamy, comforting, and simple to whip together—perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or those busy weeknights when you want something delicious with minimal fuss.
What You’ll Need:
- Cooked chicken – 3 cups, shredded. Leftover rotisserie chicken works like a charm!
- Spaghetti – 8 oz, cooked and drained. I like using whole wheat for a healthier twist.
- Cream of chicken soup – 1 can (10.5 oz). You can opt for a low-sodium version if you prefer.
- Sour cream – 1 cup, for that rich creaminess. I go for the full-fat kind for ultimate flavor!
- Cottage cheese – 1 cup. It adds a wonderful texture—try using low-fat if you’re watching calories.
- Mayonnaise – 1/2 cup, which makes everything so luscious! I prefer Hellmann’s for its great flavor.
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded. Please go for the sharp stuff; it adds fantastic richness.
- Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, grated. Freshly grated is the best for that extra punch!
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp, for depth of flavor.
- Onion powder – 1 tsp, to enhance the savory goodness.
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp, freshly cracked if possible.
- Salt – 1/2 tsp, adjusting to taste.
- Fresh parsley – 1/4 cup, chopped, for a lovely garnish.
The Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready for a cozy meal!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked spaghetti, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, and mayonnaise. Mix until everything is well blended.
- Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Give it a good stir to evenly distribute those seasonings.
- Gently fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese into the mixture, keeping it fluffy.
- Pour the chicken and spaghetti mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top it off by sprinkling the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the casserole. It’s going to help with that gorgeous golden crust!
- Bake it in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown.
- Remove the casserole from the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delightful Million Dollar Chicken Casserole!
Your taste buds are in for a treat—this dish is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the meat and use 3 cups as called for in the recipe. It’s already seasoned, so it will add extra flavor to your casserole!
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with a homemade mixture of 1 cup of chicken broth mixed with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or flour, or use a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. These alternatives will keep the casserole creamy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven, covering it to retain moisture. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy!
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Assemble it as directed but without baking it. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual. It may take a bit longer in the oven if it’s still cold when you start baking!
