Description
This Million Dollar Chicken Rice-A-Roni Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked dish featuring tender chicken, savory Rice-A-Roni, and a delicious topping of buttery Ritz crackers and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for an easy family dinner, this casserole combines convenience with rich flavors and a satisfying crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (7.2-oz) box chicken Rice-A-Roni
- 1 (10.5-oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Rice-A-Roni: Prepare the chicken Rice-A-Roni according to the package directions. Once cooked, set aside.
- Mix Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cottage cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Chicken and Rice: Stir the cooked, chopped chicken and the prepared Rice-A-Roni into the creamy mixture, folding gently to combine evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the combined mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, making sure it’s level for even baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the crackers are well coated.
- Add Topping and Cheese: Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole surface, then top with the shredded cheddar cheese to create a delicious crunchy and cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly, the cheese is melted, and the topping is golden brown.
Notes
- For a lower fat option, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese varieties.
- You can substitute cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing and a smoother texture.
- Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- For extra flavor, add chopped herbs like parsley or chives to the creamy mixture.
