If you’re craving a dish that’s cozy, creamy, and downright irresistible, let me introduce you to the Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe. This baked delight is a wonderful harmony of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a luscious blend of creamy cheeses and soup that come together in a golden, buttery crust. Perfect for feeding a crowd or cozying up with family on any night, it delivers comfort and richness in every bite. This is not just any casserole — it’s a treasured recipe that turns simple ingredients into a show-stopping meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is delightfully straightforward, relying on just a handful of ingredients that each bring their own magic to the dish. From the creamy cheeses lending silky texture to the crispy Ritz cracker topping that adds the perfect crunch — every element plays a crucial role in creating a balanced and flavorful experience.
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken: Tender, shredded or cubed chicken provides hearty protein and a satisfying base.
- 4 cups cooked rice: Fluffy rice to soak up all the savory flavors and create a comforting base.
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature: Adds richness and a smooth, creamy texture that melds perfectly with the other cheeses.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Contributes a mild tang and extra creaminess without overpowering the dish.
- ½ cup sour cream: Brings bright, tangy notes that lighten and balance the overall flavor.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup: Acts as a savory binder with deep chicken flavor and luscious creaminess.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: A subtle layer of warmth and flavor enhancing all the savory ingredients.
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder: Adds gentle aromatics and a mild bite that rounds out the flavors.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed: Creates the iconic buttery, crunchy topping that bakes golden on top.
- 5 Tbsp butter, melted: Binds the cracker topping together and adds a rich, golden crisp finish.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray which keeps your casserole from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Having this ready before mixing the ingredients helps keep your workflow smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken and Rice Base
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and the undiluted can of cream of chicken soup. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and all ingredients are fully incorporated. This mixture is the heart of your casserole — creamy, savory, and packed with flavor.
Step 3: Spread and Top
Spread the creamy chicken and rice mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Next, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this buttery cracker topping evenly over the casserole for that classic golden crunch that is truly irresistible once baked.
Step 4: Bake and Brown to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, the creamy interior bubbles gently while the cracker topping crisps up and takes on a warm, golden color. Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes to achieve your preferred level of browning. Once done, it’s time to enjoy the comfort you’ve just created.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions adds a pop of color and freshness that beautifully contrasts the casserole’s rich creaminess. A little cracked black pepper on top can also elevate the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, bright side salads or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Their crisp texture and fresh flavors provide a lovely balance to the hearty, creamy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small oven-safe dishes to provide personalized comfort portions. You can also layer it with additional cheese or sprinkle with sautéed mushrooms or bacon bits before baking to make it your very own variation of the Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. To freeze, wrap tightly with foil or place in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through to preserve that crispy topping. Alternatively, microwave portions covered with a damp paper towel for a quicker warm-up, though the topping won’t stay as crisp.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and a bit more texture. Just be sure to cook it fully before mixing into the casserole since it takes longer to cook than white rice.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with a combination of sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based chicken alternative to maintain the savory, hearty nature of the dish.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Definitely. Replace the Ritz crackers with gluten-free cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal, and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free or use a homemade alternative.
What’s the secret to the perfect crispy topping?
The key is mixing crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkling it evenly on top before baking. This creates that iconic golden crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole beneath.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, adding frozen peas, chopped spinach, or finely diced bell peppers can boost nutrition and add flavor. Just fold them into the mixture before spreading in the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a celebration of simple ingredients turned extraordinary. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or a comforting weeknight meal, it delivers creamy, savory satisfaction every time. I truly hope you give it a try and make it a beloved staple in your kitchen just like I have.
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Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 to 40 minutes
- Total Time: 40 to 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Million Dollar Chicken & Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for a family meal. Tender cooked chicken and fluffy rice are combined with rich cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, and a touch of garlic and onion powders, then topped with buttery crushed Ritz crackers for a crispy golden crust. Baked to perfection in under an hour, this casserole is hearty, flavorful, and sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice Mixture
- 4 cups chopped cooked chicken
- 4 cups cooked rice
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp dried onion powder
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- 5 Tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, dried onion powder, and the can of unsalted cream of chicken soup. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Spread Mixture in Dish: Transfer the chicken and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken and rice base. Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Notes
- Using room temperature cream cheese allows for easier mixing and a smoother casserole texture.
- You can substitute cooked turkey for the chicken if desired.
- For a lower-fat version, use low-fat sour cream and cottage cheese.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, add the cracker mixture halfway through baking instead of before cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
