If you are craving a comforting and delicious meal that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you are going to adore this Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe. This dish combines tender chunks of seasoned chicken with creamy mushroom soup, melty cheddar cheese, and a delightful mix of vegetables all baked to golden perfection. Every bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that feels both hearty and uplifting. Whether you are making dinner for your family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser that effortlessly hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe are simple yet play vital roles in creating its luscious taste and inviting texture. Each component has been thoughtfully selected to bring balance in creaminess, savoriness, and a little crunch on top.
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cubed for tender bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken and locking in moisture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors just right without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and depth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses aromatic warmth effortlessly.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a mild sweetness that complements the chicken.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Creates that creamy, comforting base everyone loves.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and adds savory richness.
- 1 cup sour cream: Lends tangy creaminess and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an earthy herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Delivers a gentle smoky flavor and warm color.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts throughout for cheesy, gooey goodness.
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed: Pops of sweetness and color for balance.
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Adds umami and a tender bite that complements the chicken.
- 1 1/2 cups cooked rice: Creates a hearty base that soaks up all those rich flavors.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Topped for a crunchy, golden crust.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Mixed with breadcrumbs to ensure a crisp, buttery topping.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A bright, fresh garnish that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting the oven hot allows the casserole to bake evenly and develop that irresistible golden top.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the chicken cubes and sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes until no longer pink inside. This step seals in the juices and layers in flavor right from the start.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base
In a generously sized bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream. Stir in the dried thyme and paprika, which add a cozy smokiness and earthiness. This mixture is the heart of your casserole, creating a velvety sauce.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Add the cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, peas, sliced mushrooms, and cooked rice into the creamy base. Use a spatula to fold everything together evenly. This step ensures every bite will have a bit of all the delicious components.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out into an even layer so it bakes uniformly and looks inviting once golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture generously across the top of the casserole to create that coveted crunchy, buttery crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the casserole into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The warmth melds all the flavors together into one glorious dish.
Step 8: Let it Rest and Garnish
Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes; this resting time helps the layers set for perfect slicing. Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant pop of color and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice for garnishing this Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe, adding a beautiful green touch and subtle herbaceous brightness. If you want to mix things up, try some finely diced green onions or a light dusting of smoked paprika to highlight the color.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a hearty meal all on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple leafy green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus are also fantastic companions that add freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this casserole in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillet dishes can make for a charming, personalized presentation great for dinner parties. Alternatively, consider topping portions with a dollop of sour cream or crumbled crispy bacon for an extra flavor boost and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The casserole flavors continue to meld beautifully, making it just as satisfying for a next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
You can prepare this entire Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe in advance and freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly with foil and place in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the top springs back to life with crispness. For quicker reheating, the microwave works well, but the oven will better preserve that coveted crunchy crust.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a richer flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the creamy casserole base in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk yogurt, and use dairy-free cheese and cream of mushroom soup. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like diced bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli florets to increase the veggie content and add more color to your dish.
What can I use instead of rice in this recipe?
You can swap the rice for cooked quinoa, couscous, or even small pasta shapes like orzo for an interesting twist on texture and taste.
Can this casserole be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping, and double-check that your cream of mushroom soup is labeled gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe is hands down a comforting classic that never gets old. It’s versatile, simple to make, and filled with inviting flavors that bring everyone to the table with a smile. Give it a try the next time you want a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like home in every forkful. I promise it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites!
Print
Savory Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting Savory Baked Chicken Casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy mushroom soup, shredded cheddar, and savory seasonings, all baked with a buttery breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a hearty family dinner.
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
Casserole Mixture
- 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
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready when the casserole is assembled.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken cubes, season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat once cooked.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream. Add dried thyme and paprika, stirring thoroughly to blend the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, thawed peas, sliced mushrooms, and cooked rice into the sauce mixture. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, then spread the casserole mixture evenly inside it.
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle this crumb topping evenly over the casserole surface.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes to settle. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked quinoa for rice for a healthier alternative.
- Frozen peas can be replaced with other frozen vegetables like carrots or corn.
- To make it lower in fat, use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
- Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
