This simple 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole is the definition of comfort food made easy. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you get a creamy, savory, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It uses only five basic ingredients you likely already have
Quick and easy to prepare with no complicated steps
Rich, creamy texture with a crispy buttery topping
Perfect for make-ahead meals and leftovers
Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 sleeve (about 30 crackers) buttery round crackers, crushed
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until all the crumbs are coated.
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 to 35 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes
Variations
Add vegetables such as peas, corn, or chopped carrots to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition.
Use shredded rotisserie-style chicken for even more flavor.
Mix a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder into the chicken base for added depth.
Swap buttery round crackers with crushed cornflakes for a different crunchy topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes, covering loosely to prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover roasted or boiled chicken works perfectly and saves time.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator before baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
It’s best frozen before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
What type of chicken works best?
Both chicken breast and chicken thigh meat work well as long as they are fully cooked and shredded.
Can I make this recipe lighter?
You can use reduced-fat sour cream and soup, though the texture may be slightly less rich.
Do I need to add salt or pepper?
The soup and crackers are already seasoned, but you can adjust seasoning to taste if desired.
What size baking dish should I use?
A standard 8×8-inch baking dish works well for this recipe.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free cream soup alternative.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with a simple salad, steamed vegetables, or rice.
Conclusion
This 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole proves that delicious comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. Creamy, crunchy, and incredibly easy to make, it’s a reliable recipe you’ll come back to again and again for quick family meals or stress-free gatherings.
A creamy, crunchy, and comforting casserole made with just five ingredients—perfect for busy weeknights and cozy dinners. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and sure to please everyone at the table.
