Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe

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Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (10.5 ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• cup cottage cheese
• cup sour cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoons Creole seasoning
• teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
• 5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 30 buttery round crackers (such as Ritz), crushed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon sliced scallions, or to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, cottage cheese, sour cream, cream cheese, Creole seasoning, onion powder, and teaspoon of garlic powder until smooth and well combined.
3. Fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken and chopped parsley, mixing until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed crackers, melted butter, and remaining teaspoon garlic powder. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated with the butter.
5. Transfer the chicken mixture to a 9-inch square or 11x7-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken mixture.
7. Top with the buttery cracker mixture, spreading it out to cover the cheese.
8. Place the baking dish on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
9. If desired, garnish with sliced scallions before serving.

Recipe Tips

• This dish can be stored in the freezer for up to 4 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or for up to 6 hours, then bake according to the instructions.
• Feel free to experiment with different flavors by using various types of rotisserie chicken, such as mojo, lemon pepper, or garlic.
• Any buttery, crisp crackers will work well in this recipe. Ritz crackers are a popular choice!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	32g Fat	12g Carbs	35g Protein
473	32g	12g	35g

Nutrition Facts

• Servings Per Recipe: 10
• Calories: 473
• Total Fat: 32g (41% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 12g (61% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 179mg (60% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1046mg (45% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 12g (5% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 35g (70% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 136mg (10% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (10% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 413mg (9% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a rich and creamy dish that combines the best of comfort food flavors in a single casserole. While the name suggests a luxurious meal, its made from easy-to-find ingredients, such as rotisserie chicken, cream cheese, cottage cheese, and crackers. Its a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Origin Story

The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a relatively modern American dish, gaining popularity in the 2000s. Although the exact origin of the recipe is not well-documented, its components are distinctly Southern, featuring a creamy sauce, rotisserie chicken, and buttery crackers. The name "Million Dollar" likely stems from the casseroles rich flavor and satisfying nature, which could rival dishes served in fine dining restaurants, yet it remains simple enough for a home cook to prepare.

Regional Variations

This casserole has a strong following in Southern and Midwestern American homes, where casseroles are a staple. In the South, variations of this dish might incorporate spices like Cajun seasoning or add vegetables like green beans or peas. Some families might even swap the crackers for crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs, adjusting the dish to regional tastes. The use of rotisserie chicken is particularly popular because it simplifies preparation, making this dish a quick and easy solution for busy cooks.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While the Million Dollar Chicken Casserole shares characteristics with other creamy chicken casseroles, it stands out due to its unique combination of dairy ingredients. Many casseroles use a simple cream of chicken soup, but this recipe incorporates cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream, creating a rich, velvety texture. Additionally, the crispy cracker topping adds a delightful crunch, setting it apart from other similar dishes that may rely on breadcrumbs or cheese alone for a topping.

Where Its Served

This dish is typically served in casual dining settings, including family dinners, potlucks, or church gatherings. Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors make it a go-to option for feeding a large group. Its also ideal for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated easily. Some restaurants specializing in comfort food might offer this casserole as part of their menu, often paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Fun Facts

1. The casserole's name, "Million Dollar," is likely a playful exaggeration, but the rich ingredients and satisfying flavor make it feel indulgent. Some people even claim its worth every penny!
2. The use of rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also enhances the flavor of the dish. Many cooks opt for pre-cooked chicken to simplify the recipe, but you can also use fresh chicken if you prefer.
3. If you want to make this casserole even more luxurious, try adding a layer of sauted mushrooms or spinach to the chicken mixture. The combination of creamy cheese and earthy vegetables elevates the dish even further.
4. This recipe is highly adaptable whether you like it spicier with extra Creole seasoning or milder with different cheese blends, it can easily be tailored to suit personal tastes.

Conclusion

The Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings together comforting ingredients in a crowd-pleasing way. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or making it for a weeknight dinner, this casserole promises a deliciously creamy experience thats easy to make and sure to satisfy.

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