If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Creamy Baked Chicken Casserole is a must-try. A wholesome blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, hearty vegetables, and perfectly seasoned ingredients make this dish a standout at any dinner table. It’s not only filling and satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. This casserole brings a warm, homestyle touch to your kitchen, delivering both nutrition and indulgence in one dish. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or sneak in some extra vegetables for the kids.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup green peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked pasta or rice (optional, for a heartier dish)
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the vegetables—carrots, peas, and corn—to the skillet. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. Mix until well blended.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme or Italian seasoning. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese until incorporated.
- If using pasta or rice, fold it into the mixture at this stage for a more filling meal.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese layer for a crispy topping.
- Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra freshness if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy baked chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. It’s also fantastic with garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage Tips:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
This dish is the definition of simple comfort food done right—perfectly creamy, wonderfully cheesy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family or guests, it’s bound to become a favorite go-to recipe.