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Featured image of the creamy and cheesy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole ready to be served.

Perfect Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

This Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy Ritz cracker topping. It's a decadent and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken about 2 lbs
  • 1 lb pasta rotini, penne, or similar
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter, for topping

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large saucepan
  • whisk
  • Large bowl
  • small bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  3. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.
  5. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Stir in sour cream and parsley.
  7. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cooked pasta, and cheese sauce. Mix well to coat.
  8. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  9. In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
  10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
  11. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Leftover rotisserie chicken works great. Add cooked vegetables like broccoli, peas, or mushrooms. Experiment with different cheese blends like Gruyere, Swiss, or provolone. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.