Oh, let me tell you about my *Million Dollar Chicken Casserole*! This dish has become a staple in my family, especially during gatherings. I can still remember the first time I brought it to a potluck. The creamy, cheesy aroma wafted through the air, making everyone’s mouths water. As we sat around the table, the casserole just disappeared! It’s so flavorful and comforting, it truly feels like a warm hug on a plate. The blend of tender chicken, mixed veggies, and that crunchy cornflake topping makes every bite delightful. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll understand why it’s earned its million-dollar name in my house. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, and I promise, your family will be asking for seconds! So, let’s dive into making this delicious casserole together!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I usually use rotisserie chicken for ease!)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (this adds such a rich creaminess)
- 1 cup sour cream (don’t skip this; it elevates the flavor!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (the more, the merrier, right?)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (any mix you like works here)
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes (for that crunchy topping—yum!)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (this helps the cornflakes get golden)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for an extra kick)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (it adds a nice depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (just a pinch of each to round it out)
How to Prepare Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color we all crave!
Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. Then, toss in the frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything until it’s well combined. You want a nice, smooth mixture that’s bursting with flavor!
Prepare the Baking Dish
Next, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good greasing with some butter or cooking spray. This step is key to prevent the casserole from sticking, making it easier to serve later. Nobody wants to fight with a stuck casserole!
Add Cornflake Topping
In a separate bowl, mix those crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until they’re well coated. Then, sprinkle this crunchy goodness evenly over the top of your chicken mixture. This will give your casserole that fabulous crunch we all love!
Bake the Casserole
Now, pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly around the edges and the top is a beautiful golden brown. Oh, the smell will drive you wild!
Cooling Time
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This little break helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to scoop out those perfect portions. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy one-dish meal that comes together in no time!
- Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting friends and family.
- Loaded with creamy, cheesy goodness that everyone will love.
- The crunchy cornflake topping adds a delightful texture contrast.
- Super versatile—feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or even turkey!
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
- Makes great leftovers—just reheat and enjoy the next day!
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a time-saver, grab a rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds amazing flavor!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand. Broccoli, peas, or corn work beautifully!
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Watch the Cornflake Topping: If you want an extra crunchy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the spices! If you love garlic, add a bit more. If you want a hint of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes.
- Check for Doneness: Besides the golden color, make sure the casserole is bubbly around the edges. This means it’s heated through and ready to serve!
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar is a classic choice, try mixing in some pepper jack or mozzarella for a fun twist!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of my *Million Dollar Chicken Casserole*. It’s always good to know what you’re enjoying, right? This can help you keep track of your meals while still indulging in delicious comfort food!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. So, whether you’re counting calories or just keeping an eye on your nutrition, I hope this helps you enjoy every delicious bite of this casserole!
FAQ Section
Can I substitute other proteins?
Absolutely! If you don’t have chicken on hand, turkey works wonderfully in this *Million Dollar Chicken Casserole*. You can even try shredded beef or a meat substitute for a different twist!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up to keep it fresh!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake it as directed!
What’s the best way to reheat it?
To reheat your *Million Dollar Chicken Casserole*, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep that cornflake topping nice and crispy!
Can I add more veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables. Fresh or frozen broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach can add a nice pop of color and nutrition!
What if I don’t have cream of chicken soup?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade substitute by mixing together equal parts of chicken broth and milk with a bit of flour to thicken it, or use a different cream soup, like cream of mushroom, if you prefer!
Is this casserole spicy?
It’s not spicy at all, but if you’d like some heat, feel free to add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños to the mixture. It’s all about your taste preference!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying my *Million Dollar Chicken Casserole*, I love to pair it with a few simple sides that really enhance the meal experience. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment. It’s great for soaking up any extra creamy sauce from the casserole!
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole beautifully. Check out this spinach and fruit salad recipe!
- Steamed Veggies: Serve some steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for a pop of color and added nutrition. They’re quick to prepare and complement the casserole perfectly!
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
- Fruit Salad: For a sweeter note, a bowl of fresh fruit salad can be a delightful finish to the meal. The natural sweetness is a nice way to round off a hearty dish.
These sides not only round out the meal but also make it feel like a special family dinner. Trust me, your loved ones will appreciate the extra effort, and you’ll be left with happy, satisfied faces all around the table!
Print
Million Dollar Chicken Casserole: 5 Irresistible Reasons to Try
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort Food
Description
A creamy and flavorful chicken casserole that is a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated.
- Substitute chicken with turkey for a different flavor.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, chicken casserole, easy casserole, family dinner