Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Cheesy Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. This casserole combines wholesome ingredients into a rich, satisfying dish the whole family will love.

ingredients

Baked Cheesy Chicken Casserole (Easy & Creamy)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked and shredded chickenbreast or thigh meatcream of chicken soupcream cheesemayonnaise or sour creamshredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)garlic powderonion powdersalt and peppercooked pasta or rice (optional, for base)buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream cheese, and mayonnaise or sour cream. Mix until smooth.

Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mix until evenly incorporated.

If using pasta or rice, layer it in the bottom of the baking dish.

Spoon the chicken mixture over the base or directly into the dish if not using a base.

Top with a generous layer of shredded cheese.

Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top for a golden, crunchy finish.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and the top is golden brown.

Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 25–30 minutesCooling time: 5 minutesTotal time: 45–50 minutes

Variations

Add steamed broccoli or peas for extra veggies.

Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a creamier cheese pull.

Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a different flavor profile.

Swap the breadcrumb topping for crispy fried onions for added crunch.

Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.You can freeze the casserole (before or after baking) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely, the cheesy and creamy flavors are usually a big hit with kids.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni works best.

Can I skip the topping?

Yes, but the crunchy topping adds great texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soup, pasta, and breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.

Why is my casserole too runny?

Ensure the ingredients are well mixed and not overly diluted. Bake uncovered to help it thicken.

Can I add hot sauce or spices?

Yes, feel free to spice it up to your taste preference.

Can I use light or low-fat ingredients?

Yes, but the texture and flavor may slightly change.

Can I add other proteins?

Shredded turkey or diced ham can be good alternatives to chicken.

Conclusion

Baked Cheesy Chicken Casserole is creamy, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. It’s a versatile dish that works for any occasion and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether served with pasta, rice, or on its own, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and flavor to the table.