Ever had one of those days where you open the fridge, stare into the abyss, and wonder if “cereal for dinner” is an acceptable life choice? We’ve all been there. That’s exactly why I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorites: easy canned chicken casserole recipes. It’s the kind of comforting, creamy, cheesy goodness that swoops in and saves your evening — with barely any fuss.
Whether you’re juggling work, kids, errands (or let’s be honest, just trying to catch up on your favorite show in peace), this easy canned chicken casserole is your ticket to a hearty meal without the kitchen chaos.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Canned Chicken Casserole
This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s quick, satisfying, and requires zero culinary acrobatics. It’s perfect for those “I can’t even” nights when you just need something warm, creamy, and downright delicious. Plus, with canned chicken as the star, you’re cutting down on prep time in a big way. Dinner hero status: unlocked.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll gather for this cozy casserole (full measurements are in the recipe card below!):
- Canned chicken – for easy protein without the hassle of cooking
- Cream of chicken soup – adds that rich, creamy base
- Sour cream – brings a little tangy zip to the mix
- Shredded cheddar cheese – because melted cheese makes everything better
- Garlic powder – a little flavor boost
- Onion powder – to deepen the savory goodness
- Black pepper – just enough to wake up the flavors
- Salt – a tiny pinch to balance it all
- Frozen peas and carrots (optional) – a pop of color and sweetness if you’re feeling veggie-forward
- Crushed buttery crackers – hello, crispy, buttery topping!
- Melted butter – because… do we really need a reason?
NOTE: All the ingredients with exact measurements are right below the article in the handy recipe card!
How to Make This Easy Canned Chicken Casserole
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Mix it all up: In a large bowl, stir together the canned chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and those optional peas and carrots. (Tip: No judgment if you toss in a few more cheese handfuls — I always do!)
3. Spread the chicken mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
4. Crush and sprinkle: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter. Spread this dreamy topping all over your casserole.
5. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes until everything’s hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown and begging you to dig in.
6. Cool slightly (if you can stand to wait) and serve it up warm!
Katherine’s Tips for Extra Yum
- Add more veggies: Toss in frozen corn, chopped broccoli, or spinach if you want to sneak a few more greens in there.
- Cheese swap: Try Monterey Jack or a sharp white cheddar for a fun twist.
- Crunch factor: Out of crackers? Crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs make a great stand-in!
- Meal prep magic: Assemble the casserole earlier in the day, pop it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready for dinner.
(And if your topping looks a little… enthusiastically golden, just call it “rustic.” Worked for me when I forgot mine in the oven last Thanksgiving.)
A Little Kitchen Story…
This casserole has a sweet spot in my kitchen memories. It became a regular after one chaotic weeknight when my youngest declared “Mom, this tastes like a hug!” after the first bite. Honestly, that’s the best review any recipe can get, right?
FAQs About Easy Canned Chicken Casserole Recipes
Can I substitute fresh chicken for canned chicken?
Absolutely! Just use about 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken.
How do I store leftovers?
Pop them into an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays tasty for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Can I freeze this casserole?
You bet! Assemble everything but the cracker topping, freeze it, and when you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.
Bringing It All Together
If you’re craving something cozy, low-fuss, and guaranteed to get two thumbs up at the table, easy canned chicken casserole recipes are your new best friend. They bring a whole lot of comfort with very little effort — and hey, that’s the kind of math I can get behind.
So next time you’re thinking “what’s for dinner?”, skip the cereal and bake up a little magic instead. Trust me, your future self (and your hungry crew) will thank you.
Print
Easy Canned Chicken Casserole Recipes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy canned chicken casserole recipe is the perfect cozy comfort meal for busy nights. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with buttery crackers, it’s quick to prepare and always a family favorite!
Ingredients
2 (12.5 oz) cans canned chicken, drained and flaked
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish.Mix Casserole Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the canned chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and frozen peas and carrots (if using). Stir until well blended.Spread in Baking Dish
Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish.Prepare Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, stir together the crushed buttery crackers and melted butter until the crumbs are fully coated.Top the Casserole
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it hot and creamy!
Notes
You can substitute canned chicken with 2 cups of cooked, shredded fresh chicken if preferred.
Try using different cheeses like Monterey Jack or sharp white cheddar for a flavor twist.
To make it even heartier, stir in cooked rice or pasta before baking.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze the unbaked casserole (without the cracker topping) for up to 2 months. Add topping fresh before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Easy Chicken Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: easy canned chicken casserole recipes, creamy chicken casserole, chicken bake, quick chicken recipes, family dinner ideas, weeknight meals, comfort food casserole
