Why This Chicken Casserole Is So Popular
This recipe is loved because it is:
- Super creamy and cheesy
- Easy to prepare in one dish
- Family-friendly and filling
- Great for meal prep
- Perfect for busy weeknights
The combination of juicy chicken and melted cheese creates that irresistible stretchy texture like in your image.
Ingredients You Need
Main Ingredients
- 500 g chicken breast (cubed)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup cooking cream or heavy cream
- ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional but very creamy)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella + cheddar mix
- Extra black pepper
Preparing the Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a bowl combine:
- Chicken cubes
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
Mix well so every piece is coated.
Step 2: Sear for Flavor
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Cook chicken for about 5–6 minutes until lightly golden.
It doesn’t need to be fully cooked since it will finish in the oven.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pan:
- Add onions and peppers
- Cook 3–4 minutes until soft
- Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds
Step 2: Build the Sauce
Lower heat and add:
- Cooking cream
- Sour cream (or cream cheese)
- Mayo (optional)
- Oregano
Stir gently until smooth and creamy.
Add half the mozzarella and cheddar.
Mix until slightly melted.
Assembling the Casserole
Step 1: Combine
In a large bowl mix:
- Cooked chicken
- Creamy sauce
- Vegetables
Stir until everything is fully coated.
Step 2: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour mixture into a greased glass baking dish.
Spread evenly.
Adding the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
This creates that golden bubbly layer and long cheese pulls you see in the picture.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F)
- Bake for 20–25 minutes
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra golden color (optional)
Let it rest 5 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens.
What Makes It Extra Creamy
The secret is the combination of:
- Cream + cheese
- Sour cream (adds richness)
- Slightly baked sauce instead of dry ingredients
This keeps the chicken juicy and prevents dryness.
Best Cheese Choices
For perfect melt:
- Mozzarella → stretchy texture
- Cheddar → strong flavor
- Monterey Jack → extra smooth melt
- Gouda → deep creamy taste
Mixing cheeses gives the best result.
Variations You Can Try
Spicy Version
Add chili flakes or jalapeños.
Mushroom Chicken Bake
Add sautéed mushrooms.
Low-Carb Version
Mix with broccoli or spinach instead of pasta.
Pasta Casserole
Add cooked pasta for a full meal.
Mexican Style
Add corn, cumin, and taco seasoning.
Serving Ideas
This creamy chicken bake goes perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Fresh salad
- Roasted vegetables
It can easily be the star of dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator
Store covered up to 3 days.
Reheat in oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes.
Freezer
Freeze before baking for best texture.
Bake from frozen adding 10 extra minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking chicken before baking
- Using low-fat cheese (doesn’t melt well)
- Too little seasoning
- Skipping resting time after baking
Letting it sit briefly makes the casserole creamier.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 350–450
- Protein: 25–30g
- Fat: 20–25g
- Carbs: 6–10g
Values depend on cheese and cream used.
Final Result
When ready, you should have:
- A bubbling golden cheese top
- Tender chicken pieces
- Creamy thick sauce
- Perfect stretchy cheese pull
Exactly like the photo you shared — warm, rich, and comforting.