Hey there. If you need a warm, comforting meal that comes together in one dish, this is it. This chicken casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with goodness.
It’s an easy recipe with simple steps, and you don’t need to stand over the stove for hours. Just mix, bake, and enjoy. Let’s get started.
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and equipment you need to make this recipe.
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Foil or baking dish cover
Important Info
- Servings: 6 portions
- Estimated Cost to make this recipe: Around $12, depending on the cost of ingredients in your area
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Calories per serving: 400 kcal
- Cook method: Baking
- Season: Perfect all year round
- Courses: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Diets: HighProteinDiet, LowCarbDiet
Ingredients You Need
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Sour cream | Greek yogurt |
| Cheddar cheese | Mozzarella or Monterey Jack |
| Cream of chicken soup | Cream of mushroom soup |
| Rice | Cooked quinoa or pasta |
| Breadcrumbs | Crushed crackers or cornflakes |
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cooked rice, sour cream, shredded cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle this over the casserole.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- If you want a crunchy topping, use crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Add cooked veggies like peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat in the oven.
What to Serve with Chicken Casserole
- Side salad
- Garlic bread
- Steamed vegetables
- Roasted potatoes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
No, the chicken should be fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Raw chicken will not cook properly in the baking time.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Can I make this without rice?
Yes, you can use cooked pasta, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice if you want a lower-carb option.
How do I make it more cheesy?
Add an extra ½ cup of cheese to the mixture and sprinkle more on top before baking.
