If there’s one comfort food that welcomes you like a warm hug on a chilly evening, it’s this Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender chunks of cooked chicken nestled with vibrant mixed vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce and topped with a crispy, buttery cracker crust. This dish is the perfect blend of hearty flavors and satisfying textures, making it a go-to favorite for family dinners or casual gatherings. Once you try this Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly, providing a delightful balance of creaminess, cheesiness, and crunch. Each item plays a vital role in delivering that classic pot pie flavor without the fuss of rolling out dough.
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken: The hearty protein base that makes the casserole filling and satisfying.
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen mixed vegetables, thawed: Adds vibrant color and a variety of textures to brighten every bite.
- 1½ cups sour cream: Brings a lovely creaminess and slight tang to the filling for depth.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds rich, melty flavor and enhances the casserole’s savory appeal.
- ½ tsp onion powder: A subtle layer of savory seasoning that complements the chicken perfectly.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Infuses a gentle warmth and aromatic touch throughout the dish.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup: The classic creamy binder that holds everything together beautifully.
- ¼ cup butter, melted: Used to gently coat the cracker topping, ensuring a golden, crispy finish.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers: Crushed to create a buttery, crunchy topping that elevates texture and presentation.
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Then, lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This simple step prevents sticking and helps give your casserole a perfect crust without any mess.
Step 2: Mix the Filling Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, thawed mixed vegetables, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and cream of chicken soup. Stir everything until it’s well blended. This mixture is the heart of your Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe – creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor all the way through.
Step 3: Layer the Filling
Spread the combined chicken and vegetable mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Ensuring an even layer helps the casserole cook uniformly, so every serving has that comforting balance of creamy filling and crispy topping.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
Next, crush your Ritz crackers into fine pieces and mix them with the melted butter. This buttery cracker topping is what transforms the casserole from everyday to extraordinary, providing a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling below.
Step 5: Add the Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture. Now all that’s left is to bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is nothing short of irresistible.
How to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh burst of flavor and make your casserole look extra inviting, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives over the top before serving. These herbs bring a pop of color and a mild brightness that complements the rich casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed green beans offers a refreshing counterpoint. For something heartier, try roasted sweet potatoes or garlic bread to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re cooking for a crowd or want to make each portion feel special, consider serving individual servings in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. The crispy cracker topping looks so charming in little dishes, and it’s fun for guests to dig into their own personal casserole pot.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe has cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick reheats during busy weeknights or weekend lunches.
Freezing
Good news if you want to prep ahead! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it yet, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This makes busy nights feel so much easier with a homemade meal ready to go.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your casserole in a 350ºF oven until warmed through and the cracker topping regains its crispness. Microwave works in a pinch but may soften the topping, so if you have the time, the oven method is worth the extra effort.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn can be sautéed or lightly steamed before mixing them in. This will give your casserole an even fresher taste and slightly different texture.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese can work as substitutes, though the flavor and texture will be a bit different. Greek yogurt adds a tangy punch, while cream cheese provides extra creaminess.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the Ritz crackers for a gluten-free cracker variety or crushed gluten-free cereal. Just be sure the cream of chicken soup you use is also gluten-free, or make your own homemade version to be certain.
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds great flavor with minimal effort. Just make sure it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces to blend effortlessly into the casserole filling.
How do I make sure the cracker topping doesn’t get soggy?
Make sure to mix the crushed crackers with melted butter before adding to the casserole. This coats the crackers and helps them crisp up in the oven. Also, baking uncovered allows moisture to escape, keeping the topping delightfully crunchy.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for spending a moment with me to explore this delicious Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe. It’s truly one of those recipes that feels like a warm invitation to gather around the table and enjoy good food and good company. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this casserole never fails to deliver hearty comfort with a golden, crispy finish. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own new classic!
Print
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish combining tender cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, creamy sour cream, and cheddar cheese, all topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. Perfect as a hearty family dinner, it bakes to a golden bubbly finish in under an hour.
Ingredients
Filling
- 4 cups cooked chopped chicken
- 1 (10-oz) package frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
- 1½ cups sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
Topping
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chopped chicken, thawed mixed vegetables, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and the unsalted cream of chicken soup. Mix thoroughly to create a consistent filling.
- Assemble Filling: Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it’s leveled out for even baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, mixing well to coat the crumbs completely.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the cracker and butter mixture evenly over the top of the chicken filling. Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Notes
- Use fully cooked chicken; rotisserie chicken works well for convenience.
- Feel free to substitute frozen peas and carrots or other mixed vegetables if preferred.
- For a crispier topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Make sure the cream of chicken soup is unsalted to control sodium levels.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
