Million Dollar Chicken Casserole

### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### 1. Preheat the Oven
– Begin by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly.

#### 2. Prepare the Chicken
– If you haven’t already, cook and shred the chicken. You can **boil, bake**, or **pan-sear** the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred them with a fork.
– For added convenience, you can use rotisserie chicken to save time.

#### 3. Make the Creamy Sauce
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the **cream of chicken soup**, **cream cheese**, **sour cream**, **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, and **Dijon mustard** (if using).
– Stir until smooth and well-combined. Add **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
– Add the **shredded chicken** to the bowl and mix until the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

#### 4. Assemble the Casserole
– Pour the creamy chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
– Sprinkle the **shredded cheddar cheese** and **mozzarella cheese** on top of the chicken mixture for extra creaminess and flavor.

#### 5. Prepare the Topping
– In a small bowl, combine the **crushed Ritz crackers** with **melted butter**. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated with butter.
– Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the top of the casserole to create a crispy, golden topping.

#### 6. Bake the Casserole
– Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about **30-35 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown.
– If you’d like the topping to be extra crispy, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.

#### 7. Garnish and Serve
– Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
– Garnish with chopped **parsley** for a burst of color, if desired, and serve hot.

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### Tips for Success

1. **Add Vegetables**: You can easily add vegetables like **broccoli**, **peas**, or **carrots** to make the casserole more hearty and nutritious.
2. **Use Different Cheeses**: Feel free to swap the cheddar and mozzarella with your favorite cheeses. Monterey Jack, gouda, or pepper jack could all add a unique twist.
3. **Make Ahead**: This casserole can be made ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
4. **Leftovers**: This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to **3 days** and can be easily reheated in the microwave or oven.

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### Why This Dish Stands Out

**Million Dollar Chicken Casserole** is a great example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels indulgent and luxurious. The combination of creamy cheese, tender chicken, and buttery cracker topping creates a perfect balance of rich and savory flavors. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s sure to become a staple in your household. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner, holiday gathering, or special occasion, it’s bound to be a hit.

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### Conclusion

For a meal that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, **Million Dollar Chicken Casserole** is a go-to choice. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting, with a golden topping that’s both crunchy and delicious. This casserole brings together all the best elements of comfort food in one simple dish, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. So, next time you’re looking for a meal that will have everyone asking for the recipe, give this Million Dollar Chicken Casserole a try!