Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comfort food classic that tastes like pure gold, you can’t go wrong with Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole. This dish delivers everything you love in a cozy casserole: creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a buttery, crisp topping that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for something special to share at a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the essentials for Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole couldn’t be easier, and each ingredient has a special role to play. From the richness of cream cheese to the crunch of cracker topping, these simple staples work together to create layers of flavor, color, and irresistible texture.

• Egg noodles (12 oz): These classic noodles soak up the creamy sauce beautifully and hold their shape for the perfect bite.
• Cooked shredded chicken (2 cups): Rotisserie chicken is a time-saver, but any cooked chicken will add hearty protein and substance.
• Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This pantry favorite brings savory depth and a silky base to the casserole.
• Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Softened cream cheese melts seamlessly, making the sauce extra rich and luscious.
• Sour cream (1 cup): Adds tang and creaminess, balancing the richness with a subtle zip.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): A touch of mayo ensures the sauce is ultra-smooth and slightly savory.
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): Sharp cheddar gives gooey, melty goodness and a pop of color on top.
• Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the casserole with gentle garlicky warmth.
• Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a background note of sweetness that complements the other flavors.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances and unifies all the ingredients without overpowering.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to add a subtle kick and complexity.
• Chopped green onions (1/4 cup): Fresh and colorful, these brighten up the whole dish.
• Crushed Ritz crackers (1/2 cup): This topping gets golden and crisp, adding that crave-worthy crunch.
• Melted butter (2 tablespoons): Coats the cracker crumbs for a buttery, irresistible finish on top.

How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and gets that gorgeous, bubbling golden top. Take a moment to grease your 9×13-inch baking dish too, so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until just al dente. You want them to have a bit of bite since they’ll soften more while baking. Drain them well and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and green onions. Mix until everything’s smooth and fully blended—this is your flavor-packed base that makes Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole so irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Noodles

Fold your cooked noodles and shredded chicken into the sauce mixture. Gently stir to coat every strand and piece of chicken in that luxurious, creamy goodness, being careful not to break up the noodles too much.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top for an extra layer of melty, cheesy bliss.

Step 6: Make and Add the Cracker Topping

In a small bowl, toss the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until every crumb is coated. Scatter this mixture evenly over the casserole—this is the secret to that signature Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole crunch!

Step 7: Bake and Rest

Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping is golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so everything sets up nicely and you get those perfect, creamy slices.

How to Serve Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh green onions or chopped parsley right before serving adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby note that wakes up the whole casserole. If you love a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes is a fun twist, too.

Side Dishes

Pair your Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, or serve it alongside classic steamed green beans or roasted broccoli. Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are always a hit for soaking up that extra creamy sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins for a personalized touch, or serve it family-style straight from the baking dish for maximum comfort factor. You can even use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or bake it in a cast-iron skillet for rustic charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. It’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

This casserole is a dream for the freezer! Assemble everything (including the cracker topping), cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave works well—just add a splash of milk if the sauce seems thick.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is not only a huge time-saver but also adds wonderful flavor and tenderness to the casserole. Just shred and mix it right in.

What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes make fantastic alternatives. Each gives a slightly different texture, but all will deliver that satisfying crunch.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Stir in sautéed mushrooms, frozen peas, chopped spinach, or even cooked broccoli for extra color, nutrition, and flavor. Just be sure to cook or thaw veggies first to avoid excess moisture.

Is this recipe suitable for making ahead?

Yes, Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole is perfect for prepping in advance. Assemble the casserole up to the topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add the cracker topping just before baking for the best crunch.

How can I lighten up this casserole?

You can use reduced-fat cream cheese, light sour cream, and light mayonnaise to trim down the richness a bit. Swapping in whole wheat noodles and adding extra veggies are also delicious ways to make it a bit healthier.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a creamy, comforting meal that makes everyone at the table feel like a million bucks, you simply have to try Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole. It’s hearty, satisfying, and always a hit with kids and adults alike—don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!

Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Million Dollar Chicken Noodle Casserole is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish loaded with tender shredded chicken, egg noodles, and a flavorful blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar. Topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust, this comforting casserole is perfect for an easy family dinner that delivers warmth and rich taste in every bite.

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Ingredients

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Protein and Dairy

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

Pasta

• 12 oz egg noodles

Soup and Seasonings

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Topping

• 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure it reaches the right baking temperature while you prepare the casserole.
2. Cook Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Make Filling: In a large bowl, thoroughly mix the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chopped green onions until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the cooked noodles and shredded chicken into the creamy mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated without breaking the noodles.
5. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and transfer the noodle and chicken mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
6. Make Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
7. Add Cheese and Cracker Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole, then top with the buttery cracker crumbs to create a crunchy topping.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping turns a golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to set, then serve warm for a delicious comfort meal.

Notes

• Use rotisserie chicken for quick and easy preparation.
• Substitute Ritz crackers with panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for alternative textures.
• Add cooked bacon or chopped spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 610
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg
• Fat: 39g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 105mg