Creamy Cheddar Baked Chicken Casserole (Easy 50-Minute Dinner!)
When it comes to easy, comforting dinners that the whole family devours, this Creamy Cheddar Baked Chicken Casserole is at the top of my list. It’s rich, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned — with tender chicken breasts baked in a luscious sour cream and cream of chicken sauce, topped with melty cheddar and crispy golden breadcrumbs.
This is one of those reliable, no-stress recipes that delivers big flavor with minimal prep. Just 10 minutes of hands-on time, and your oven does the rest.
Let’s dive into why this one earns a permanent spot in the weeknight rotation.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a big fan of recipes that balance creamy comfort with simple ingredients, and this one absolutely nails it.
Here’s why I keep coming back to it:
- ✔️ Uses pantry staples
- ✔️ Bakes in one dish
- ✔️ Kid-approved and crowd-friendly
- ✔️ Perfect for meal prep
- ✔️ Ready in under an hour
The sour cream and cream of chicken soup create a velvety base that keeps the chicken juicy, while the cheddar and breadcrumb topping add texture and flavor contrast. It’s comfort food without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Nonstick spray or butter (for greasing)
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Chicken Cutlets: If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally for faster, more even cooking.
- Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder flavor.
- Add Veggies: Broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach can be added around the chicken for a built-in side.
- Extra Richness: Stir 1 tablespoon cream cheese into the sauce mixture.
- Breadcrumb Option: Panko gives a crispier topping than traditional breadcrumbs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and fully blended.
3️⃣ Arrange the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and place them in a single layer in your prepared dish.
4️⃣ Add the Sauce
Spoon the creamy mixture evenly over the chicken, spreading to fully coat each piece.
5️⃣ Add the Cheese Layer
Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly across the top.
6️⃣ Prepare the Topping
Toss breadcrumbs with olive oil until lightly coated and crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the cheese.
7️⃣ Bake Covered
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8️⃣ Finish Uncovered
Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the topping is golden brown.
9️⃣ Rest & Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip resting time — it locks in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness (watch closely!).
- If meal prepping, slightly underbake and reheat gently later.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This creamy baked chicken pairs beautifully with simple sides:
- Steamed green beans
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Buttered rice
- A crisp side salad
For a full dinner spread, start with an appetizer like This Baked Brie Appetizer Is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests.
For something refreshing to drink, try This Blueberry Lemonade Is My Favorite Refreshing Drink for Sunny Days.
And if you’re feeding a crowd, round out the meal with a cozy dessert like This Big Family Banana Pudding Is My Favorite Classic Dessert to Feed a Crowd.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 42g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
(Nutrition may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Storage & Leftover Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Leftovers also slice beautifully for sandwiches or wraps the next day.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If creamy, cheesy dinners are your thing, don’t miss:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara & Garlic Butter
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
Both deliver bold, comforting flavors with minimal effort — perfect for busy nights.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cheddar Baked Chicken Casserole is the kind of dependable comfort food every home cook needs. It’s simple, satisfying, and adaptable — whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting Sunday dinner.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment, share your twist, and follow along for more easy, flavor-packed recipes straight from my kitchen to yours.
— Jason Griffith
ChefManiac.com
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