If you’re looking for a soul-warming dish that delivers on flavor and comfort, the Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This casserole brings together tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked rice in a luscious, cheesy bake that’s both easy to prepare and irresistibly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave something hearty and delicious without a fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right touch of savory. Each component plays a vital role in giving this casserole its rich texture, balanced flavor, and golden top that you’ll love.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Shredded or diced, this is the hearty protein base that makes the dish satisfying.
- 3 cups cooked white rice: Adds a fluffy, comforting starch that soaks up all the creamy flavors.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Brings a rich, velvety texture to the casserole filling.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess that balances the richness.
- 1 cup cottage cheese: Provides a gentle curd texture and adds protein without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into mild, gooey pockets throughout the casserole.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers sharp flavor and lovely color.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: The secret sauce that binds everything and adds savory depth.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and full of flavor.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Infuses the mixture with gentle aromatic warmth.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Rounds out the savory undertones.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional): Provides a crispy, buttery topping for a delightful crunch.
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional): Mix with crackers for that perfect golden crust.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and make sure your casserole releases easily after baking. This simple prep step lays the foundation for an easy clean-up and a beautiful presentation.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This luscious blend is the heart of the Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe—where all the rich flavors marry into a silky base.
Step 3: Add Chicken and Rice
Fold in the cooked chicken and rice into your creamy mixture. Be gentle but thorough, making sure every bit of rice and chicken is lightly coated. This ensures each bite bursts with the balanced combination of protein, starch, and that dreamy sauce.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Evenly spread the casserole mixture into your prepared dish. Take a spatula and smooth out the top so it bakes evenly and creates that perfect crust we’re all dreaming about.
Step 5: Optional Topping That Shines
If you’re going for the full experience, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole. This golden, crispy topping elevates the dish, adding texture contrast that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Step 6: Bake To Perfection
Bake your casserole uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are bubbly and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. The aroma alone makes it impossible to wait!
Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, give your casserole a few minutes to rest. This brief wait helps everything set nicely, making it easier to serve neat portions without losing any of that creamy magic.
How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and a fresh bite that balances the richness. Crushed red pepper flakes also work well if you want a hint of heat, making each bite exciting and layered.
Side Dishes
This casserole is so satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans adds much-needed freshness to your meal. Light, tangy coleslaw is another great side that contrasts the casserole’s creamy texture beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks or family dinners, serve the Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. It also works beautifully garnished with a sliced avocado or a dollop of your favorite salsa for a fun twist that keeps things interesting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you have a quick, comforting meal ready to enjoy without extra work.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead or save portions, this casserole freezes well. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain its texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly again. A quick sprinkle of extra cheese on top before reheating keeps it fresh and melty.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice works just as well and adds a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber. Just make sure your brown rice is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cream cheese, sour cream, and cheese. Just choose versions that melt well and are flavorful to keep the essence of the dish intact.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Definitely! Adding cooked vegetables such as peas, carrots, or broccoli florets can add color, texture, and extra nutrition. Stir them in with the chicken and rice for a wholesome twist.
What type of chicken is best for this casserole?
Any cooked chicken works – leftover roast chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even poached chicken breasts. Shredded chicken blends best for an even texture throughout the dish.
How spicy is the casserole?
This casserole is mild and creamy by nature. If you prefer a bit of a kick, you can easily add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix or serve it alongside some spicy condiments.
Final Thoughts
The Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe is truly one of those magical meals that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or craving cozy comfort food on a busy night, this casserole hits every note just right. I hope you give it a try and make it your go-to recipe for delicious, no-fuss family dinners!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Million Dollar Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting baked dish combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich blend of cheeses and cream soups. Topped with a buttery cracker crust, it makes a perfect family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside to prepare for the casserole.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Chicken and Rice: Fold in the cooked chicken and cooked white rice into the creamy mixture, stirring until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish to create a uniform layer.
- Prepare Topping: If using, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crispy, buttery crust.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until it is bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding chicken.
- Cottage cheese adds creaminess and protein; you can substitute with ricotta if desired.
- The Ritz cracker topping is optional but adds a lovely crunchy texture to the casserole.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, especially if your cream of chicken soup is already salted.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free crackers or omit the topper.
