5-Ingredient Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

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💎 5-Ingredient Million Dollar Chicken Casserole 💎

📝 Introduction

If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, comforting dinner that tastes like a million bucks but uses only 5 simple ingredients, this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is your new favorite recipe. It’s warm, cheesy, smooth, and perfectly baked with a golden top that makes every bite irresistible.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, church gatherings, family dinners, or potlucks. Minimal effort. Maximum flavor. Pure comfort.

🛒 Ingredients (Only 5!)

  1. 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
  2. 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  3. 1 cup sour cream
  4. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  5. 1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz), crushed

✨ Optional but delicious: 2 tablespoons melted butter to mix with cracker topping.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl:

  • Mix softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
  • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Fold in the cooked shredded chicken until fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble

  • Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
  • Crush crackers and sprinkle evenly over the top.
  • (Optional) Drizzle melted butter over the cracker topping for extra richness.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden brown top.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving so it sets beautifully.

🍳 Cooking Methods

1️⃣ Oven Method (Classic)

Best for crispy golden topping and even baking.

2️⃣ Slow Cooker Method

  • Spray slow cooker.
  • Add mixture (without cracker topping).
  • Cook on LOW for 3–4 hours.
  • Add crackers in the last 30 minutes.

3️⃣ Make-Ahead Method

  • Assemble casserole.
  • Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
  • Bake when ready (add 5–10 extra minutes).

📜 History of the “Million Dollar” Name

The term “Million Dollar” became popular in American home cooking during the mid-1900s. It describes recipes that:

  • Taste rich and luxurious
  • Use creamy ingredients
  • Feel special without expensive ingredients

These types of casseroles became popular in:

  • Church cookbooks
  • Southern family gatherings
  • Potluck dinners

They symbolize comfort, sharing, and home-style cooking.

🧱 Formation & Texture

This casserole forms in beautiful layers:

  • Bottom: Creamy chicken mixture
  • Middle: Melted cheese richness
  • Top: Buttery, crunchy cracker crust

The inside stays soft and creamy while the top adds that satisfying crunch.

❤️ Why People LOVE It

✔️ Only 5 ingredients
✔️ Budget-friendly
✔️ Kid-approved
✔️ Great for leftovers
✔️ Comfort food at its best

It’s one of those recipes that guests always ask for!

🍽 Serving Ideas

  • Serve with steamed vegetables
  • Pair with mashed potatoes
  • Add a simple green salad
  • Spoon over rice or egg noodles

🏁 Conclusion

The 5-Ingredient Million Dollar Chicken Casserole proves you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something unforgettable. It’s creamy, comforting, simple, and full of homemade love.

One bite and you’ll understand why it’s called “Million Dollar.” 💛

If you’d like, I can also give you:

  • A spicy version 🌶
  • A keto version 🥑
  • A freezer-friendly version ❄️
  • Or a larger party-size version 🎉

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