If you are craving a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug, this Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy, well-seasoned chicken mingles beautifully with tender mushrooms, bright peas, and creamy cheddar-infused sauce, all baked to golden perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with smiles, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends alike. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with homemade goodness that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe leans on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From tender chicken to creamy cheese and crunchy topping, every element shines in harmony to create this unforgettable casserole.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and tender bites throughout.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing chicken to a golden, flavorful start.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle spiced kick without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the dish with warm, savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements garlic for rich aroma and taste.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Brings smooth creaminess and earthiness.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and savory notes to the sauce.
- 1 cup sour cream: Provides tangy richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Lends herbal fragrance and subtle complexity.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives warmth and beautiful color.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, adding sharpness.
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed: Pops of sweetness and vibrant green for freshness.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Earthy texture that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice: The hearty base that makes the casserole filling and satisfying.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy interior.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Adds richness to the breadcrumb topping for golden color.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Bright garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering, then add the cubed chicken. Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to infuse every bite with flavor. Cook the chicken until it turns opaque and no longer looks pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step gives your casserole that juicy protein base filled with seasoning.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the chicken cooks, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream. This blend will form the luscious sauce that coats every morsel in the casserole. Stir in dried thyme and paprika, both of which add warmth and an inviting herbal aroma. Mixing these ingredients now helps the flavors meld together perfectly.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients for the Casserole
Once the chicken is ready, add it to the creamy sauce mixture along with shredded cheddar cheese, peas, sliced mushrooms, and cooked rice. Carefully stir everything until it’s evenly distributed, ensuring that each spoonful will have a balanced mix of ingredients. The layers of texture – from creamy to chewy to slightly crisp – are what make the Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to guarantee consistent cooking. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this buttery topping all over the casserole. This topping will bake into a golden crust that adds the perfect crunch. Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for a bubbly, golden top that signals it’s ready to come out.
Step 5: Rest and Garnish
After baking, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This brief pause helps everything settle, making cutting and plating easier without losing any of the cheesy, creamy goodness. To add a fresh pop of color and brightness, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top right before serving. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference in presentation.
How to Serve Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
The fresh parsley garnish isn’t just for looks; it brings a mild, herbaceous lift that cuts through the casserole’s richness beautifully. For an extra special touch, consider adding a light drizzle of a high-quality olive oil or a few shavings of sharp cheddar cheese just before serving to enhance both flavor and appearance.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed veggies, or roasted root vegetables for added freshness and texture contrast. A simple side of garlic bread or dinner rolls completes the meal perfectly, soaking up any extra sauce and making sure you don’t miss a bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family gathering or potluck, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming personal touch. You can also layer this dish in a clear glass baking dish to show off its appetizing layers, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen, making the next-day meal just as satisfying as the first bite.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble it as instructed and cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, just adding extra baking time until warmed through and bubbly. For baked leftovers, cool completely and freeze in suitable containers.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place leftover casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through. Removing the foil in the last few minutes helps restore the crispy topping.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar is fantastic for its sharp flavor and melting quality, feel free to substitute or mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for a different twist. Each will bring its own character to the dish.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Make sure the cream of mushroom soup you use is also labeled gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with sensitivities.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Definitely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and extra fiber which makes the casserole even more wholesome. Just be sure to use cooked rice that’s fully tender before mixing it in so the casserole bakes evenly.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make the casserole dairy-free, use coconut milk-based sour cream or other dairy-free sour cream alternatives and choose a plant-based cheese substitute that melts well. Also, confirm the cream of mushroom soup and broth are dairy-free or homemade.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Yes! This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Consider adding diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, or shredded carrots to boost color and nutrition. Just be mindful of water content to avoid a soggy casserole—drain or sauté extra vegetables if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a cozy homemade hug with every bite. Its mix of comforting textures and rich flavors makes it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, or just craving a satisfying meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to delight. Pull out your baking dish and get ready to enjoy a deliciously warm and inviting casserole that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
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Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Savory Baked Chicken Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender chicken cubes cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce blended with cheddar cheese, peas, mushrooms, and rice. Topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection, this casserole makes a satisfying family meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Sauce and Mix-Ins
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
Topping and Garnish
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chicken cubes and season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook chicken until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream. Stir in dried thyme and paprika to create a flavorful sauce base.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, peas, sliced mushrooms, and cooked rice into the sauce mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this crumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a fresh touch.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked before mixing to avoid undercooking in the casserole.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with a homemade mushroom sauce for a fresher taste.
- Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and verify that soup ingredients are gluten-free.
- Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can boost nutrition and color.
