Description

A warm, creamy, and easy casserole that delights everyone at the table, perfect for busy schedules and potlucks.

Ingredients

Creamy Filling Ingredients

4 cups Cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (Any cooked chicken works; rotisserie chicken is perfect.)
8 oz Cream cheese, softened (Make sure it is fully softened for smooth mixing.)
1 cup Cottage cheese (Adds body and protein.)
1 cup Sour cream (Provides tang.)
1/4 cup Mayonnaise (For silky richness.)
1 cup Chicken broth (A splash to loosen.)
1 teaspoon Garlic (Fresh or powder.)
1 teaspoon Onion powder
1 teaspoon Paprika
to taste Salt and pepper (Adjust to your preference.)
1.5 cups Shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella) (Use a mix if preferred.)

Topping Ingredients

2 cups Buttery crackers, crushed (For topping.)
1/2 cup Butter, melted (Combine with cracker crumbs.)
optional Parsley or chives, for garnish (Add for a fresh finish.)

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Instructions

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Soften cream cheese completely.

Mix the Base

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Stir in cottage cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and a splash of chicken broth until creamy.

Add Chicken and Cheese

Fold in the cooked chicken and 1 to 1.5 cups of shredded cheese.
Spread the mixture evenly in the greased baking dish.

Make the Topping

Combine the crushed crackers with the melted butter.
Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
Add extra cheese on top if desired.

Bake

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until bubbly at the edges and lightly golden.
Allow it to rest for 8 to 10 minutes before serving to let it set.

Notes

This casserole can be prepared ahead of time; refrigerate the unbaked casserole for up to 24 hours and add the topping just before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Comfort Food, dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American