Next, pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter and the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the crackers are well-coated in butter, giving them a nice golden crunch once baked. Now sprinkle this delicious topping evenly over the chicken mixture.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. As it cooks, you’ll start to smell that comforting aroma wafting through your home. It’s truly hard to resist peeking in the oven and maybe even stealing a taste or two! Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning my tongue, which I might have done once or twice!
Serve this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole warm. It’s a dish that is perfect on its own, but I sometimes like to pair it with a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables for a bit of freshness.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve experimented with this dish a few different ways and found what works best for flavor and texture. First, I always make sure to use rotisserie chicken for convenience, and it adds an incredible depth of flavor to the casserole. I’ve tried cooking chicken breast separately, and I felt it was just not as tasty.
Another tip I’ve discovered is to let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven. This not only allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve, but also allows the flavors to meld together magnificently.
Lastly, don’t skip the crushed Ritz cracker topping – it really gives that extra layer of texture and flavor. I once used plain breadcrumbs, and while it was still good, it lacked that delightful buttery crunch that makes this dish so special.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve made in the past is not properly mixing the ingredients. It’s easy to miss a spot, which can lead to uneven flavors. I’ve learned to really take my time mixing everything together, ensuring that each bite is creamy and delicious. (See the next page below to continue…)