Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a timeless, hearty dish thatโs perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a savory mix of ingredients baked together to perfection, itโs the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether you serve it on its own or pair it with a side salad, this casserole is sure to satisfy everyoneโs cravings for comfort food.
In this guide, weโll show you how to prepare this cheesy delight step-by-step, offer tips for making it even more delicious, and share some variations to suit your tastes.
What Is Cheesy Chicken Casserole?
Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy bake that combines cooked chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce, and usually a crunchy topping. The dish is layered with comforting ingredients like noodles, vegetables, and sometimes even a bit of crispy breadcrumbs for extra texture. Itโs a casserole thatโs both filling and flavorful, with a velvety cheese sauce that brings everything together.
Itโs a dish youโll want to make over and over again, and itโs perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Hereโs what youโll need to prepare this cheesy, comforting casserole:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (egg noodles, penne, or rotini are great choices)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crispy breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Casserole
- Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease a 9ร13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to ensure your casserole doesnโt stick.
- Prepare the Chicken and Pasta:
If youโre using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. If youโre using leftover chicken, this is the perfect way to repurpose it!
- Mix the Casserole Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir in the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, peas (if using), and 1/2 of each of the shredded cheeses. Mix until everything is well combined and coated in the creamy sauce.
- Layer the Casserole:
Transfer the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, ensuring the casserole is covered in cheesy goodness.
- Add the Crunchy Topping:
Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. This will give the dish a delicious, crispy crust once itโs baked.
- Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. If the top is getting too brown before itโs done, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until fully cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Cheesy Chicken Casserole Variations
1. Spicy Cheesy Chicken Casserole:
For those who love a little heat, add a teaspoon of chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or a small can of diced green chilies to the casserole mixture. This will give the dish a nice kick without overwhelming the flavor.
2. Veggie Cheesy Chicken Casserole:
For a heartier, more veggie-packed dish, stir in more vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also swap the peas for corn or carrots for a different flavor combination.
3. Healthy Cheesy Chicken Casserole:
For a lighter version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a low-fat or homemade cream sauce, and use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese. You can also use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
4. Bacon Cheesy Chicken Casserole:
Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the casserole for a smoky flavor that will take this dish to the next level. You can also sprinkle bacon bits over the top before baking for added crunch and flavor.
5. Cheesy Chicken Casserole with Rice:
For a variation on the classic, swap the pasta for cooked rice. This will make for a heartier casserole, perfect for those who prefer rice over noodles.
Why I Love This Meal:
Cheesy Chicken Casserole is one of those dishes that brings comfort with every bite. I love how easy it is to make, and how it always turns out creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and the rich cheese sauce creates a dish thatโs simply irresistible. Whatโs even better is how versatile it isโwhether you add in extra veggies, spice it up with a bit of heat, or top it with crispy breadcrumbs, itโs always a hit. This meal is the definition of comfort food and is great for feeding a family, meal prepping, or even bringing to a potluck. Itโs a dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.
People Also Ask: FAQs About Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Yes! You can prepare this casserole a day or two ahead. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as usual. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if itโs cold from the fridge.
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, remove the plastic wrap and bake at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 45-55 minutes, or until fully heated through.
Yes, you can swap out the chicken for cooked turkey, ham, or even ground beef for a different variation. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
To add some spice, try mixing in diced jalapeรฑos, hot sauce, or a bit of chili powder into the casserole filling. You can also top the casserole with some crushed red pepper flakes before baking for extra heat.
Absolutely! You can mix and match cheeses to suit your taste. Try using gouda, fontina, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that a mix of cheeses gives the best melt and flavor.
Equipment
- ๐ณ Large skillet
- ๐ฅฃ Mixing bowls
- ๐ฅ 9ร13 baking dish
- ๐ช Sharp knife
- ๐ฅ Measuring cups/spoons
Ingredients
- For the Base:
- ๐ 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- ๐ 2 cups cooked rice or pasta like penne or rotini
- ๐ฅฌ 1 cup broccoli florets steamed (optional)
- For the Sauce:
- ๐ง 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ๐พ 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ๐ฅ 2 cups milk
- ๐ง 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ๐ง 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ๐ง Salt and pepper to taste
- ๐ง 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- For Topping:
- ๐ง 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- ๐ง 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
- ๐ 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ๐ง 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ๐ฟ Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Grease a 9ร13 baking dish.
- ๐ฅฃ In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
- ๐ง Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens, then mix in cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine chicken, cooked rice or pasta, and broccoli (if using) in a large mixing bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and stir to combine.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.
- ๐ง For the topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle mozzarella, parmesan, and the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bu
Notes
๐ Swap rice with quinoa for a healthier option.
๐ Add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle kick. Storage Tips:
โ๏ธ Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
โ Freeze: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
๐ฅ Reheat: Cover with foil and bake at 350ยฐF until warmed through. Pro Tips:
๐ Use whole milk for a creamier sauce.
๐ Add mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
๐ Shred your own cheese for the best melt. Variations:
๐พ Substitute pasta with cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice.
๐ฅ Add crumbled bacon for extra flavor.
๐ถ๏ธ Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
๐ง Swap cheddar for Gruyere or Swiss cheese. Common Questions:
โ Can I make this ahead? Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
โ Can I use canned soup? Yes, replace the homemade sauce with cream of chicken or mushroom soup.
โ Can I skip the breadcrumbs? Yes, just top with cheese for a simpler version. Perfect For:
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐งโ๐ฆ Weeknight family dinners
๐ Potlucks
๐ฝ๏ธ Meal prep
๐ฅ Feeding a crowd Serving Suggestions:
๐ฅ Mixed green salad
๐ฅ Garlic bread
๐ท White wine or iced tea
๐ฟ Fresh herbs for garnish
Nutrition
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. With its creamy, cheesy layers and tender chicken, this dish is perfect for bringing warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you make it for a family dinner, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, itโs sure to be a hit with everyone. And with so many delicious variations, itโs a recipe you can make your own time and time again.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other cheesy comfort food favorites!
