Tired of weeknight dinner dilemmas? Craving a dish that’s quick to assemble, packed with flavor, and won’t derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further! Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is your answer. This creamy, cheesy, chicken-filled delight combines convenience with taste, and I promise, it’ll become your new go-to recipe. Trust me, even on my busiest days, a batch of Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a family favorite that always delivers.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
My grandmother, bless her heart, wasn’t known for her culinary adventures. But she DID have a few absolute knockouts, and this casserole was one of them. As a child, visiting her was synonymous with the comforting aroma of this baking in the oven. It’s simple comfort food at its finest and always brings back such fond memories. The best part? It’s just as good, if not better, than I remember.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 (4 ounce) can chopped green chilies, drained
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta & Cheese:
- 8 ounces pasta, cooked al dente (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, green chilies, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the cooked pasta and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Best Results
Don’t overcook the pasta! Aim for al dente. Overcooked pasta becomes even softer in the casserole, resulting in a mushy texture. Experiment with cheese combinations. Cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a little pepper jack can add a twist. For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last minute or two of baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. Add chopped vegetables! Small broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, or even canned corn seamlessly mix into the casserole, boosting its nutritional value without sacrificing its taste. Also, leftover rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, making prep even faster. Season generously with salt and pepper at each stage. Taste and adjust as needed. Remember, a well-seasoned dish is a happy dish.
Serving Suggestions
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a hearty, complete meal on its own, but that doesn’t mean you can’t elevate the experience with complimentary side dishes. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich casserole. Steamed green beans or asparagus provide a healthy dose of vegetables. For a heartier option, serve alongside a crusty loaf of bread or garlic knots for soaking up all that delicious sauce. If you want to get fancy, consider a simple cranberry sauce or relish. The tartness cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully, creating a balanced and flavorful meal. No matter how you serve it, **Million Dollar Chicken Casserole** is sure to be crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a weeknight win that brings comfort to the table. Its simplicity makes it ideal for busy schedules, while its rich flavor and creamy texture make it a family favorite. We’re talking about a versatile meal that lends itself to customization, accommodating various tastes and dietary needs. Plus, it is the perfect make-ahead dish, allowing you to prep it earlier in the day, or even the night before, baking it fresh when you’re ready to eat. The next time you’re searching for a surefire dinner option, remember this recipe. This **Million Dollar Chicken Casserole** promises to deliver satisfaction with every bite.
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sour cream, green chilies, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the cooked pasta and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
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