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Pioneer Woman Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

Pioneer Woman Million Dollar Chicken Casserole - recipe card
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This indulgent casserole layers shredded chicken, a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese, then is topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker topping that bakes to golden perfection. Rich, savory, and comforting, it is the ultimate weeknight dinner or potluck showstopper.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 10 oz / 285 g) cooked shredded chicken breast
  • 1 (8 oz / 225 g) package full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) full-fat sour cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 g) full-fat cottage cheese (small curd)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup (4 oz / 113 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
  • 1/2 cup (45 g) crushed Ritz crackers (about 12 crackers)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart (8×8-inch or similar) baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with a hand mixer or wooden spoon until completely smooth and no lumps remain. This prevents a clumpy sauce.
  3. Add the sour cream, cottage cheese, and chicken broth to the cream cheese, and stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy. The consistency will be like a thick dip.
  4. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed, but remember the cheese and crackers will add salt.
  5. Fold in the shredded chicken and 3/4 cup (85 g) of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until all chicken is coated in the creamy sauce.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer with a spatula.
  7. In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Toss with a fork until every crumb is coated — this ensures a crisp, golden topping.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup (28 g) of cheddar cheese over the casserole, then scatter the buttered Ritz crumbs evenly over the top.
  9. Bake the casserole uncovered on the middle rack for 30 to 35 minutes. The edges should be bubbling and the topping a deep golden brown. If you like a deeper crust, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  10. The casserole is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) — insert an instant-read thermometer into the center of the filling to verify. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving; this allows the creamy sauce to set and makes serving easier.
  11. Garnish with fresh chives, if desired, and serve hot. The casserole can be served straight from the dish or over rice, noodles, or a simple green salad.

Notes

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The casserole can be frozen before baking for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes. To reheat a single serving, microwave on high for 60-90 seconds. To reheat the whole dish, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to re-crisp the topping. Note: The cracker topping will soften when stored; to revive crispness, reheat in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a minute.

Nutrition

Keywords: million dollar chicken casserole, Pioneer Woman casserole, chicken casserole, creamy chicken bake, Ritz cracker casserole, potluck recipe, comfort food, baked chicken dish, weeknight dinner, easy casserole

Find it online: https://inspiredbypioneerwoman.com/pioneer-woman-million-dollar-chicken-casserole/