This easy chicken casserole dinner is a creamy, comforting crowd-pleaser that takes the stress out of mealtime. With tender chicken, a rich, cheesy sauce, and a golden, crispy topping, it’s a go-to for busy families and casual dinner nights. Whether you’re feeding a group or just need something warm and filling after a long day, this one-pan wonder is exactly what you’re craving.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this casserole stands out:
- One dish, minimal cleanup
- Perfect for families or dinner guests
- Uses simple, affordable pantry staples
- Creamy, cheesy, and cozy comfort food
- Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved
If you’ve been searching for easy dinner ideas for 10 people or recipes made with chicken that everyone will love, this casserole delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.
Ingredients Needed
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups cooked rice or egg noodles
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Note: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe.
How to Make Easy Chicken Casserole Dinner
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
This ensures a bubbling center and crispy top. - Make the casserole base.
In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, rice or noodles, soup, sour cream, cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. - Assemble the casserole.
Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. - Add the topping.
In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole. - Bake for 25–30 minutes.
It should be bubbly around the edges with a golden, crispy top. - Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
This helps everything set and makes serving easier.
Serving & Storage Tips
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables.
To store:
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freeze up to 2 months before or after baking
- Reheat in a 350°F oven or microwave until heated through
Make-ahead tip: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Helpful Notes
- Gluten-free option: Use a GF cream soup and crackers.
- Cheesy variation: Add mozzarella or pepper jack for extra gooeyness.
- Bulk it up: Stir in frozen peas or chopped cooked broccoli.
- Low-carb swap: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Conclusion
This easy chicken casserole dinner is the kind of recipe you’ll make once and keep in rotation forever. It’s creamy, cozy, and always a hit perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you just want something warm and filling without the hassle.
If you make it, drop a comment or a star rating below we’d love to hear what you added or changed!
What’s your favorite side dish to serve with a creamy chicken casserole?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred or cube it before mixing.
Can I make this casserole ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble it a day in advance, refrigerate, then bake just before serving.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze it before baking (wrapped tightly) or freeze leftovers after baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.