Million Dollar Chicken lives up to its name with a combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that will make your taste buds feel like a million bucks. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish features tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich, creamy topping and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients for Million Dollar Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to create this luxurious and easy-to-make dish:
- Chicken Breasts (4 large, boneless and skinless)
Tender and juicy, chicken breasts are the star of this dish. Pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking. - Cream Cheese (8 oz, softened)
The creamy base of the topping. Use full-fat for the richest flavor, or light for a healthier option. - Sour Cream (½ cup)
Adds tanginess and enhances the creamy texture. - Mayonnaise (¼ cup)
Contributes a smooth richness to the topping. - Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup)
Brings melty, cheesy goodness to the dish. - Bacon (6 slices, cooked and crumbled)
Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty contrast. - Green Onions (2, finely chopped)
Add a fresh, slightly sharp bite to balance the richness. - Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)
Enhances the savory depth of the topping. - Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
For seasoning the chicken and topping. - Breadcrumbs or Crushed Crackers (optional, for topping)
Adds a crispy, golden crust.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken
Follow these steps to create this indulgent, crowd-pleasing dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and black pepper. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in the green onions, reserving some for garnish.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, covering them completely.
- If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the top for added crunch.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the topping isn’t golden enough, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon and green onions over the top before serving.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully and are naturally juicier. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze Million Dollar Chicken?
Yes! Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What sides go well with this dish?
Serve Million Dollar Chicken with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad to complement its richness.
Can I add extra toppings?
Feel free to customize! Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat, or sprinkle with grated Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes, as long as you skip the breadcrumbs and use a low-carb mayonnaise, this recipe is perfect for a keto diet.
Conclusion
Million Dollar Chicken is the ultimate comfort food with its creamy, cheesy topping and tender chicken base. This easy-to-make dish will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion.
If you loved this recipe, share it with your friends on Facebook or save it to Pinterest for later. Enjoy your indulgent, delicious meal! 🍗✨
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Million Dollar Chicken
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
Million Dollar Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful baked dish that’s as indulgent as its name suggests. With a rich cream cheese topping and crispy, golden exterior, it’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6–8 chicken thighs)
- 1 cup (225 g) cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) crumbled cooked bacon
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a casserole dish.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Arrange the chicken in the prepared baking dish.
Make the Topping:
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, mayonnaise (or sour cream), mozzarella, Parmesan, crumbled bacon, and half of the green onions until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Dish:
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.
Bake:
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes (for chicken breasts) or 35-40 minutes (for chicken thighs), or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. For a golden, bubbly top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Serve:
7. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with the remaining green onions before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish up to 8 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
- Add More Flavor: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra depth.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, mashed potatoes, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
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