Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe for a Cozy Family Dinner
This creamy chicken casserole is comfort food at its finest—perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty, satisfying dish to feed the family. Tender chicken, rich and creamy sauce, and a crispy golden topping all come together to create a meal that feels like a warm hug!
The first time I made this, my kids asked for seconds (and thirds!). It’s a versatile recipe that works beautifully with pantry staples, and it’s so easy to customize. Plus, you can assemble it ahead of time for those extra hectic evenings!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Casserole
This dish is the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory. It’s made with simple ingredients but delivers bold flavor and cozy vibes every time. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or bringing it to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to please!
Your Grocery List
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Tips for Perfect Chicken Casserole
Keep these tips in mind to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time:
- Use Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here, saving you time and effort.
- Balance the Texture: The creamy filling and crunchy topping create a lovely contrast. Be sure to evenly spread the cracker or breadcrumb topping for the best bite!
- Don’t Skip the Cheese: The cheddar cheese adds a delicious sharpness that ties the dish together beautifully.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This casserole is a dream for leftovers. Here’s how to store and enjoy it later:
- Storage: Cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover with foil to keep the topping from burning.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Make It Even Better
Here are a few fun ways to customize your chicken casserole:
- Add Veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Kick It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Try Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites!
Fun Facts
Did you know casseroles date back to the 18th century? The word “casserole” comes from the French word for “saucepan” and refers to both the dish and the cooking method!
Pairings
Serve this chicken casserole with a side of green beans or a crisp garden salad to balance out the richness. For dessert, a classic apple crisp or chocolate pudding makes the perfect cozy ending.

Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- 9x13 casserole dish
- Oven
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13 casserole dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.