Name: Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 sleeve buttery round crackers; 2 tbsp butter; 4 cups water; 32 fl oz chicken stock; Salt and ground black pepper; 3 chicken breast; 24 fl oz sour cream; 26 fl oz condensed cream of chicken soup

This easy creamy chicken casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. With a rich and velvety texture, it's bound to be a hit with the entire family. Simplicity meets flavor in this quick recipe, making it an ideal go-to meal.

Photos of Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe

Most of these ingredients are common pantry items, but you may need to pick up a few specific items like buttery round crackers and condensed cream of chicken soup. Ensure you have these on hand to achieve the best results for this creamy, satisfying casserole.

Ingredients For Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe

buttery round crackers: Adds a crispy, flavorful topping to the casserole.

butter: Used to mix with the crackers for the topping.

water: Helps cook the chicken by boiling it.

chicken stock: Enhances the flavor of the chicken while it cooks.

salt: Seasons the chicken and balances flavors in the casserole.

ground black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the dish.

chicken breast: The main protein source for the casserole.

sour cream: Contributes to the creamy texture of the casserole.

condensed cream of chicken soup: Provides a rich, creamy base for the dish.

One reader, Jone Ward says:

This easy creamy chicken casserole recipe is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, and the buttery cracker topping adds a delightful crunch. It's simple to make and absolutely delicious. My family loved it, and it's now a regular in our meal rotation. Highly recommend!

Jone Ward

Techniques Required for Making Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole

How to melt butter: Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop over low heat until fully liquid. How to boil water and chicken stock: Combine water and chicken stock in a pot and bring to a rolling boil over high heat. How to season with salt and pepper: Add salt and ground black pepper to taste, adjusting based on personal preference. How to simmer chicken: Reduce the heat to low after boiling and cook the chicken gently, ensuring it stays tender. How to check if chicken is cooked: Ensure the chicken is no longer pink in the center by cutting into the thickest part. How to drain chicken: Use a colander or strainer to remove excess liquid from the cooked chicken. How to whisk ingredients: Use a whisk to combine the sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup until smooth. How to transfer mixture to baking dish: Pour the combined mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. How to sprinkle cracker mixture: Evenly distribute the cracker and butter mixture over the top of the casserole. How to bake in the oven: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F and bake until bubbly.

How To Make Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole

Whip up an easy meal with this creamy chicken casserole. It’s made of cream of chicken soup and cubed chicken breast, topped with crushed crackers.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 35 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1sleeve buttery round crackers,such as Ritz®, crushed
2tbspbutter,melted
4cupswater
32fl ozchicken stock,(1 container)
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
3chicken breast,skinless boneless, halves, cubed
24fl ozsour cream,(1 container), or to taste
26fl ozcondensed cream of chicken soup,(1 can)

Instructions

Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F. Mix the crackers and melted butter together in a bowl; set aside.
Bring water and chicken stock to a boil in a pot over high heat. Season with salt and black pepper. Add the chicken. Reduce heat to a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until chicken is no longer pink in the center.
Drain the chicken; set aside. Whisk together the sour cream and cream of chicken soup in a large bowl. Stir in the chicken, then transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the cracker mixture on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 593.68kcal
Fat: 44.58g
Saturated Fat: 20.87g
Trans Fat: 0.25g
Monounsaturated Fat: 13.93g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.70g
Carbohydrates: 20.33g
Fiber: 0.51g
Sugar: 6.64g
Protein: 28.08g
Cholesterol: 141.38mg
Sodium: 1543.54mg
Calcium: 175.44mg
Potassium: 616.63mg
Iron: 2.84mg
Vitamin A: 316.49µg
Vitamin C: 1.49mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Creamy Chicken Casserole

For a richer flavor, consider browning the chicken breasts in a skillet with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the boiling water and chicken stock. This will add a deeper, caramelized taste to your casserole.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Pre-cook the chicken: Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time on boiling and simmering.

Use pre-crushed crackers: Purchase pre-crushed buttery round crackers to skip the step of crushing them yourself.

Mix ingredients in advance: Combine the sour cream and cream of chicken soup the night before to streamline assembly.

One-pot cooking: Cook the chicken in the same pot you’ll use to mix the sour cream and soup to reduce dishwashing.

Preheat the oven early: Turn on the oven before you start assembling the casserole to ensure it’s ready to go.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe

buttery round crackers - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunchy texture and can be seasoned to mimic the buttery flavor of the crackers.
buttery round crackers - Substitute with crushed cornflakes: Crushed cornflakes offer a crispy texture and can be mixed with a bit of melted butter to achieve a similar taste.
butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can provide a similar fat content and richness, though it will impart a slightly different flavor.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct substitute for butter, offering a similar texture and taste.
water - Substitute with chicken broth: Using chicken broth instead of water will enhance the overall flavor of the casserole.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add depth of flavor and is a good option for those looking to reduce meat content.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used to maintain a rich flavor while making the dish suitable for vegetarians.
chicken stock - Substitute with beef stock: Beef stock can provide a deeper, richer flavor, though it will change the overall taste profile of the dish.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a different taste.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct substitute, offering a slightly different mineral content and flavor.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add a bit of heat, though it will also introduce a spicier flavor.
chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast offers a similar texture and flavor, making it a good alternative.
chicken breast - Substitute with tofu: Tofu can be used for a vegetarian option, providing a similar protein content and absorbing the flavors of the dish.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor while being lower in fat.
sour cream - Substitute with cream cheese: Cream cheese can provide a rich and creamy texture, though it will be thicker and slightly different in flavor.
condensed cream of chicken soup - Substitute with condensed cream of mushroom soup: Cream of mushroom soup offers a similar creamy texture and can add a different but complementary flavor.
condensed cream of chicken soup - Substitute with homemade cream sauce: A homemade cream sauce made with butter, flour, and milk can replicate the creamy texture and allow for seasoning to taste.

Best Way to Present a Creamy Chicken Casserole

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the creamy chicken casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets to create an elegant and refined presentation.
Use decoration: Garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh thyme or parsley to add a touch of color and sophistication.
Layer flavors: Add a thin layer of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the cracker mixture before baking to introduce a rich, umami flavor.
Add texture: Include a side of lightly sautéed green beans or asparagus to provide a crisp contrast to the creamy casserole.
Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for organic chicken breast and freshly made sour cream to enhance the overall taste and quality of the dish.
Create height: Stack the chicken mixture slightly higher in the center of the ramekin, allowing the cracker topping to cascade down the sides for a visually appealing effect.
Incorporate color: Add a drizzle of herb-infused oil or a sprinkle of paprika on top of the casserole before serving to introduce vibrant colors.
Use elegant dishware: Serve the casserole on fine china or modern, minimalist plates to elevate the dining experience.
Highlight the ingredients: Place a small card next to each serving that lists the key ingredients, such as chicken breast, sour cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup, to inform and entice diners.
Pair with a complementary beverage: Suggest a crisp white wine or a light sparkling water with a slice of lemon to complement the rich flavors of the casserole.

Essential Tools for Making an Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole

Oven: Used to bake the casserole at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until it becomes bubbly and golden.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the crackers with melted butter and for mixing the sour cream with the condensed cream of chicken soup.
Pot: Necessary for boiling the water and chicken stock, and for cooking the chicken breasts until they are no longer pink in the center.
Whisk: Useful for whisking together the sour cream and the condensed cream of chicken soup to ensure a smooth and creamy mixture.
Baking dish: A 9x13-inch dish is required to transfer the chicken mixture into and to bake the casserole.
Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the water, chicken stock, sour cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup accurately.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the exact amount of butter and seasonings like salt and black pepper.
Spatula: Handy for stirring the chicken in the pot and for transferring the mixture into the baking dish.
Knife: Essential for cutting the chicken breasts if they are not pre-cut.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the chicken breasts.
Colander: Used to drain the cooked chicken before mixing it with the sour cream and soup mixture.
Bowl: A small bowl is needed to mix the crackers and melted butter together.
Stirring spoon: Useful for stirring the chicken while it cooks and for mixing the ingredients together.

How To Store and Freeze Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the crackers soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the chicken casserole:
- Divide the cooled casserole into smaller, freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the casserole to prevent freezer burn.
- Seal the containers or bags tightly, removing as much air as possible.
- Label and date the containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
To reheat the frozen casserole:
- Thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator.
- Remove the plastic wrap and cover the dish with foil.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
- For a crisper topping, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place the desired amount of thawed casserole in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Chicken Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chicken casserole to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the chicken is warm. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the cracker topping to crisp up again.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place individual portions of the casserole in microwave-safe dishes and heat on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through. If the casserole seems dry after microwaving, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help restore moisture.
If you have a large amount of leftover casserole, consider reheating it in a slow cooker. Transfer the casserole to the slow cooker and heat on low for 1-2 hours, or until the casserole is heated through and the chicken is warm. This method is particularly useful if you need to keep the casserole warm for an extended period, such as during a potluck or family gathering.
For a crispy topping, reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave until heated through, then transfer individual portions to a baking sheet. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cracker topping is crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on the casserole while it's under the broiler to prevent burning.
If you find that the leftover casserole has dried out a bit in the refrigerator, try stirring in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of cream of chicken soup before reheating. This will help restore moisture and creaminess to the dish.

Random Fact About Creamy Chicken Casserole

A random fact about this recipe is that the use of sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup creates a rich and creamy texture, making the casserole incredibly comforting and flavorful.

Is Making This Casserole Economical for Home Cooking?

This easy creamy chicken casserole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like chicken breast, sour cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup, it keeps the budget in check. The use of buttery round crackers adds a delightful crunch without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD, making it an affordable and delicious option for family dinners.

Is This Creamy Chicken Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

The easy creamy chicken casserole recipe is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

High in saturated fat: The recipe includes butter, sour cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup, all of which are high in saturated fat. Consuming too much saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
Processed ingredients: The recipe relies on processed ingredients like condensed cream of chicken soup and buttery round crackers, which often contain added sodium, preservatives, and unhealthy fats.
Low in vegetables: The recipe does not include any vegetables, which are essential for a balanced and nutritious meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, which is lower in fat and higher in protein.
Use low-sodium chicken stock to reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Incorporate vegetables into the casserole, such as diced carrots, peas, or broccoli, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content.
Replace the buttery round crackers with whole-grain breadcrumbs or crushed whole-grain crackers to add more fiber and nutrients.
Use a homemade cream of chicken soup instead of the condensed version to control the ingredients and reduce the amount of processed foods in the recipe.
Reduce the amount of butter used in the cracker topping or replace it with a healthier fat, such as olive oil.

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the easy creamy chicken casserole while still enjoying its comforting flavors.

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe

This easy creamy chicken casserole recipe is a comforting and straightforward dish perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup creates a rich and velvety base, while the buttery cracker topping adds a delightful crunch. The use of chicken stock and a brief simmering time ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful. However, consider adding some vegetables like peas or broccoli for added nutrition and color. Overall, it's a satisfying and crowd-pleasing casserole that can be easily customized to suit your taste.

Enhance Your Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crispy, caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. This side dish adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the creamy richness of the chicken casserole.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This classic comfort food pairs seamlessly with the casserole, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: A refreshing salad featuring crisp greens, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. Tossed in a light vinaigrette, this vibrant dish adds a pop of color and a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Tender carrots glazed with a sweet and sticky honey coating. These vibrant orange gems bring a touch of natural sweetness and a beautiful visual appeal to your meal, balancing the savory notes of the casserole.

Cheesy Garlic Bread: Golden, crispy bread smothered in a rich garlic butter and topped with melted cheese. This indulgent side dish is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy casserole sauce, making each bite a heavenly experience.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Creamy Chicken Casserole

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Bake: Dive into a delightful blend of broccoli, chicken, and gooey cheese in this comforting casserole. The creamy sauce and crispy topping make it a family favorite.

Chicken and Rice Casserole: A hearty dish combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this casserole is both filling and flavorful.

Chicken Pot Pie: Experience the classic comfort of a chicken pot pie, filled with a medley of vegetables and encased in a flaky, golden crust. It's a timeless dish that warms the soul.

Chicken Alfredo Bake: Indulge in the creamy goodness of chicken Alfredo, baked to perfection with layers of pasta and a luscious cheese sauce. This dish is a surefire hit for any pasta lover.

Chicken and Dumplings: Savor the ultimate comfort food with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings simmered in a rich, savory broth. It's a heartwarming dish that's perfect for chilly evenings.

Appetizers and Desserts to Serve With Creamy Chicken Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The creamy filling is perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon zest and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly, and serve these delightful bites warm. They are sure to impress your guests with their rich flavors and elegant presentation.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic and drizzled with olive oil. Top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy finish. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also bursts with fresh, summery flavors that will leave your guests craving more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich and decadent chocolate lava cake that will leave your taste buds craving more. Imagine a warm, gooey center of melted chocolate encased in a delicate, moist cake. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce for an extra touch of elegance. This dessert is perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a luxurious end to any meal.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight in the tangy and sweet flavors of a classic lemon meringue pie. The crisp, buttery crust provides the perfect foundation for a luscious lemon curd filling, topped with a cloud of fluffy meringue. The contrast between the tart lemon and the sweet, airy meringue creates a harmonious balance that will leave your palate refreshed. This dessert is a timeless favorite that brings a touch of sunshine to any occasion.

Why trust this Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try because it combines the comforting flavors of chicken, sour cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup to create a creamy, delicious casserole. The buttery round crackers add a delightful crunch, making each bite irresistible. With simple instructions and readily available ingredients, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Trust this recipe for its ease and the guaranteed satisfaction it brings to the table.

Have you tried this Easy Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe? Let us know how it turned out or share your own twist on this comforting dish in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cracker for the topping?

Absolutely! You can use any type of cracker you like. Ritz crackers or even crushed cornflakes work well for a crunchy topping.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly and shred or chop them before adding them to the casserole.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Sure thing! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're starting from cold.

Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?

You can make a few swaps to lighten it up. Use low-fat sour cream and a reduced-fat cream of chicken soup. You can also add some veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Just make sure to let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.