After a busy day, this easy Chicken Casserole comes together with creamy soup and shredded chicken for a comforting family dinner. A base of savory onion and peas bakes under a blanket of golden tater tots until crisp. Just 15 minutes of prep lets you get it in the oven quickly for a bubbly, satisfying meal the whole table will enjoy.
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Ingredients for Your Easy Chicken Casserole
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to any great family dinner recipe, and this creamy chicken casserole is no exception. I love pulling these simple, comforting things from my pantry and fridge—it feels like putting together a hug in a baking dish.
For the Creamy Filling
- Olive Oil – A couple of tablespoons to get things started.
- Yellow Onion – Finely chopped and sautéed until perfectly soft.
- Garlic – Minced and added for that irresistible aroma.
- Cooked Chicken – Shredded and ready to soak up all the flavors.
- Frozen Peas and Carrots – Thawed for a quick pop of color and sweetness.
- Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup – The cozy, creamy base that ties it all together.
- Sour Cream – Adds a tangy richness you’ll love.
- Dried Thyme – A little herbaceous magic to elevate the dish.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground is always a good idea.
- Salt – Just a pinch to bring everything into balance.
For That Crispy, Cheesy Topping
- Frozen Tater Tots – The ultimate crispy crown for this comforting casserole.
Cook Time for this Easy Chicken Casserole
I find the timing for this savory chicken bake with vegetables is just perfect for a weeknight. You get a from-scratch feeling without spending all evening in the kitchen. In fact, it reminds me of my classic shepherd’s pie—both are wonderfully hands-off once they’re in the oven.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
How to Make a Creamy Chicken Casserole
Making this cheesy chicken and potato casserole is a breeze, I promise. Just follow these simple steps for a comforting baked chicken with peas that your whole crew will adore.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with oil or cooking spray.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Step 4: Combine the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the shredded chicken, thawed peas and carrots, condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly with a rubber spatula until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Step 6: Add the Tater Tot Topping
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the chicken mixture, covering the surface completely.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling at the edges and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this chicken casserole recipe truly your own. Don’t be afraid to play around with it—that’s how family favorites are born!
- Flavor Swap: If you’re not a fan of tater tots, try using a layer of shredded potatoes or even sliced potatoes like in my potato squash casserole. It creates a different, but equally delicious, texture.
- Diet Tweak: For a lighter version, swap the sour cream for plain Greek yogurt and use a low-fat condensed soup. It still gives you that creamy oven-baked chicken dinner vibe without the guilt.
- Prep & Texture Fix: To avoid a soggy bottom, make sure your peas and carrots are completely thawed and patted dry before mixing them in. A little extra time here makes a world of difference.
- Storage & Reheat Tip: This baked creamy chicken with tater tots stores beautifully. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to keep the topping crisp, unlike a slow cooker soup which is best reheated on the stove.
Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots thawed
- 10.5 ounce condensed cream of chicken soup 1 can
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 16 ounce frozen tater tots 1 bag
Equipment
- skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- oven
- spatula
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant, then remove the skillet from the heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the shredded chicken, thawed peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt, stirring until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the chicken mixture, covering it completely.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the tater tots are golden brown and crisp.
- Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
I believe that comfort food should nourish both the soul and the body, and this creamy chicken casserole delivers on both fronts. While it feels indulgent, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and essential vitamins from those colorful vegetables.
Each serving provides a satisfying balance of nutrients that keeps you full and energized. The peas and carrots add fiber and natural sweetness, making this savory chicken bake with vegetables a well-rounded meal. I always feel good serving this to my family because it combines convenience with real food ingredients.
For those watching their intake, this cheesy chicken and potato casserole can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. If you’re looking for other nutritious family dinner recipes, you might enjoy my baked chicken and broccoli alfredo or the lean protein options in my angel beef casserole. For more guidance on balanced eating habits, I often reference this classic chicken stew techniques resource that emphasizes wholesome ingredients.
A Lighter Version of Creamy Chicken Casserole
Sometimes we crave that comforting baked chicken with peas but want a lighter touch, and I’ve found some simple swaps that work beautifully. The beauty of this easy chicken casserole is how adaptable it is to different dietary needs without losing its soul-warming quality.
For a lower-fat version, try using plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream – it gives the same tangy creaminess with more protein. You can also opt for low-sodium condensed soup and reduce the cheese topping. I sometimes use sweet potato tots instead of regular ones for extra nutrients, similar to the approach in my sweet potato casserole.
Another favorite trick is adding extra vegetables like chopped spinach or broccoli florets to bulk up the nutrition. If you enjoy these lighter adaptations, you might also appreciate my squash casserole which naturally highlights garden-fresh produce with minimal added fats.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Over the years, I’ve cooked for friends and family with various dietary needs, and I’ve learned that small adjustments can make a big difference in enjoying favorite dishes. This chicken casserole recipe is wonderfully adaptable for those watching their sugar intake or managing dietary restrictions.
For my diabetic friends, I often recommend reducing the starchy components and increasing the non-starchy vegetables. You can create a lower glycemic version by using cauliflower tots instead of potato tots and adding more green vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Portion control is also key – I serve smaller portions alongside a fresh green salad to balance the meal.
When it comes to blood sugar friendly adaptations, I find that using natural sweetener alternatives isn’t necessary for this savory dish, but being mindful of the condensed soup’s sodium content helps. Remember, the best approach is always what works for your body and makes you feel your best at the table.
How to Serve Chicken Casserole
I’ll never forget the first time I served this baked creamy chicken with tater tots to my extended family during a reunion in Provence. My French relatives were skeptical about the “American potato puffs” until they took that first bite – now they request it every time they visit!
This comforting baked chicken with peas pairs beautifully with simple, fresh sides that complement its richness. I love serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or some steamed green beans with almonds. The contrast between the warm casserole and cool, crunchy sides makes for a perfect meal.
For heartier appetites, crusty bread is essential for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce. If you’re looking for other comforting family dinner recipes that serve a crowd, you might enjoy my cowboy casserole or the elegant baked manicotti that always feels special for Sunday dinners.
Remember to let your chicken casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking – this allows the flavors to settle and makes serving much easier. I usually garnish with fresh parsley or chives from my garden for a bright finishing touch that makes the dish feel extra special.
Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve learned through trial and error that even the simplest chicken casserole recipe can go wrong when we rush or skip steps. Let me share the common pitfalls I’ve encountered so your creamy chicken casserole turns out perfect every time.
First, never skip pre-cooking your chicken. Raw chicken won’t cook through properly in the casserole, leaving you with uneven texture. I always use cooked, shredded chicken to ensure every bite is tender and safe. Second, don’t overmix your ingredients once you add the tater tots. Gentle folding preserves their texture and prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
Third, avoid covering your casserole dish with foil for the entire baking time. You’ll miss that golden-brown crust we all love. I remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to achieve that perfect crunch. For more baking tips that apply to various dishes, check out my stuffed potato nests technique and this helpful regional chicken casserole variations guide that emphasizes proper cooking methods.
Remember, the best easy chicken casserole comes from patience and attention to detail. I learned this the hard way when I served an undercooked version to my book club – now I always use my meat thermometer!
How to Store Chicken Casserole
My grandmother taught me that good food deserves proper care, and her methods for storing this comforting baked chicken with peas have served me well for decades. She’d wrap leftovers in wax paper before refrigerating, but I’ve adapted her wisdom for modern kitchens.
For short-term storage, let your chicken casserole cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. When reheating, I recommend adding a splash of broth or milk to restore the creamy texture. For freezing, portion individual servings in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until bubbly. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven gives you back that freshly-baked texture. If you enjoy meal prepping like I do, you might appreciate my crockpot cheeseburger soup which freezes beautifully, or the shepherd’s pie that actually improves in flavor after a day in the refrigerator.
Try This Chicken Casserole Yourself
I’ll never forget the first time I made this cheesy chicken and potato casserole for my daughter’s kindergarten potluck. The other parents asked for the recipe, and little Emma beamed with pride that her mama’s cooking was the talk of the teacher’s lounge.
That’s the magic of this savory chicken bake with vegetables – it brings people together around the table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family after soccer practice or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this creamy oven-baked chicken dinner delivers comfort and satisfaction every time.
I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Add your favorite herbs, swap vegetables based on what’s in season, or adjust the cheese to your preference. Cooking should be an expression of love, not a rigid following of rules. If you enjoy this style of cooking, you might also love my chicken pasta bake, the hearty cheeseburger pasta, or the sophisticated manicotti that always feels special.
For more weeknight inspiration, try my chili cheese pasta or the crowd-pleasing BBQ steak pasta. Each recipe carries that same heartwarming approach that makes family dinner recipes so cherished.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is in chicken casserole?
A classic chicken casserole typically includes cooked chicken, a creamy base like condensed soup or sauce, vegetables, and a starchy component like potatoes or pasta. My version features tender chicken, creamy soup, colorful peas and carrots, and crispy tater tots for that perfect comforting texture everyone loves.
What is a 5 ingredient chicken casserole?
For a super simple version, you can make a five-ingredient chicken casserole with cooked chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, shredded cheese, and tater tots. It’s amazing how these basic ingredients transform into the most comforting baked chicken with peas and crispy potato topping.
How to make a simple chicken casserole?
Start with pre-cooked chicken mixed with condensed soup and your favorite vegetables. Spread it in a baking dish, top with cheese and tater tots, then bake until golden and bubbly. The beauty of this easy chicken casserole is how little hands-on time it requires for such impressive results.
What are the 5 components of a casserole?
Every good casserole has five key elements: protein (like our chicken), a starchy binder (potatoes or pasta), vegetables, a creamy sauce or liquid, and a flavorful topping. This structure creates the layered textures and flavors that make cheesy chicken casserole so satisfying and complete as a meal.
More Comforting Casseroles You’ll Love
If this chicken casserole warmed your heart, here are more family dinner recipes that bring that same cozy satisfaction to your table.
Potato Squash Casserole – A beautiful autumn twist featuring creamy butternut squash and crispy potatoes with herbs.
Chili Cheese Pasta – All the game-day flavors baked into the most comforting pasta dish you’ll ever try.
Stuffed Potato Nests – Individual potato cups filled with cheesy goodness, perfect for portion control.
BBQ Steak Pasta – Smoky barbecue flavors meet tender steak and pasta in this crowd-pleasing bake.
Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup – All your favorite burger flavors in a warm, comforting soup that cooks itself.
Shepherd’s Pie – The ultimate comfort food classic with savory meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping.
