A rich, creamy and cheesy chicken casserole topped with crispy buttery crackers and bacon! This comforting family dinner is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6–8 people
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken, diced or shredded | 3 cups |
| Cream cheese, softened | 8 oz (225 g) |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Grated cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Buttery crackers, crushed | 1 cup |
| Bacon strips | 6 |
| Granulated garlic | 1 tsp |
| Cracked black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | For topping |
| Melted butter | 3 tbsp (for cracker topping) |
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2 – Cook the bacon
Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, let cool, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside.
Step 3 – Prepare the creamy mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4 – Add the seasonings and cheese
Add the granulated garlic, cracked black pepper and grated cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 5 – Add the chicken and bacon
Fold in the cooked diced or shredded chicken and most of the crumbled bacon. Mix gently until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Reserve a little bacon for the topping.
Step 6 – Assemble the casserole
Transfer the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula.
Step 7 – Prepare the cracker topping
Crush the buttery crackers into small crumbs. Mix them with 3 tablespoons of melted butter until evenly coated.
Sprinkle the buttery cracker crumbs over the casserole. Add the reserved crispy bacon on top.
Step 8 – Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for approximately 30 minutes, or until hot, bubbly and lightly golden on top. If needed, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 9 – Garnish and serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Serving suggestions
This creamy chicken casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans.
- Fresh garden salad.
- Roasted vegetables.
- Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread.
Tips for the perfect casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken to save preparation time.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Use freshly grated cheddar for a smoother, creamier result.
- Don’t add too much salt because bacon and cheese are already salty.
- For extra crunch, add the cracker topping just before baking.
- Let the casserole rest briefly before serving so it holds together better.
Storage instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the chicken filling before adding the cracker topping for up to 2 months for best quality.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through.
Ready to enjoy!
Creamy chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheddar and a buttery golden topping — one bite explains why it’s called Million Dollar Chicken Casserole! ❤️