Chicken Casserole Recipe – Warm, Creamy, and So Easy to Make

Chicken casserole is one of those dishes that makes everyone feel at home.

It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor.

You get tender chicken, soft pasta or rice, a creamy sauce, and some tasty veggies

all baked in one big dish.

It’s perfect for busy nights, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

The best part?

It’s simple to make.

You don’t need to be a chef or have special tools.

With just a few steps, you’ll have a bubbling, golden casserole coming out of the oven that everyone will love.

This recipe also lets you use what you already have in your kitchen, and you can swap in your favorite veggies or toppings.

Let’s begin by looking at the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
• 2 cups cooked pasta or rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Step By Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C).

This gives it time to warm up while you get everything else ready.

Also, lightly grease a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with oil or butter so your casserole doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a large bowl, add the cream of chicken soup and sour cream.

Stir them together until smooth.

Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, a little salt, and some black pepper.

This creamy mix will help hold your casserole together and give it great flavor.

Step 3: Add the Chicken, Veggies, and Pasta

Next, stir in the cooked chicken, pasta or rice, frozen vegetables, and half of the shredded cheese.

Mix everything well so it’s all coated with the creamy sauce.

If the mix seems too thick, you can add a splash of milk or water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Fill the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish.

Spread it out evenly with a spoon so every part cooks the same.

Sprinkle the rest of the shredded cheese over the top.

This will melt and turn golden in the oven, making a cheesy crust that tastes amazing.

Step 5: Add the Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)

If you want a crispy top, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter in a small bowl.

Sprinkle this over the cheese layer. It adds a nice crunch to balance the soft inside of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes.

When it’s done, the cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the top should be golden brown.

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

This helps it set and makes it easier to scoop.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Casserole

This recipe brings everything you need for a meal into one dish—protein, veggies, and carbs.

It’s great for feeding a family, and you can easily double the recipe for larger groups or leftovers.

The creamy texture and cheesy topping make it a favorite with both kids and adults.

It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken, cooked rice, or pasta.

If you’re short on time, you can use rotisserie chicken or canned chicken, and frozen veggies work just as well as fresh ones.

Easy Swaps and Add-Ons

No sour cream? Use plain yogurt or cream cheese.

No cream of chicken soup? Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery.

Want more flavor? Add a pinch of paprika or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix.

Love extra crunch? Add crushed crackers or cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs.

Need it gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free soup option.

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge.

Cover the dish or place the casserole in an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days.

To reheat, microwave a portion or bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until hot.

If the top starts to dry out, cover with foil while heating.

You can also freeze this casserole.

Just wrap it tightly before baking and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual.

Final Thoughts

Chicken casserole is a go-to recipe for busy people and hungry families.

It’s easy, comforting, and full of flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Best of all, it uses everyday ingredients and only needs a few steps to make.

Whether it’s a cold winter night or you just need a quick dinner fix, this dish delivers.

So the next time you have some leftover chicken or need something warm and filling, try this chicken casserole recipe.

It’s simple, tasty, and always hits the spot.

You’ll find yourself making it again and again.