There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the smell of a Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup wafting through your home. Each ingredient melds together, creating an inviting aroma that fills the kitchen and beckons family and friends to gather around the table. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy embrace on chilly evenings and a remedy for the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Imagine creamy chunks of chicken, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon melted together under a layer of gooey cheese. It’s a comforting one-dish wonder that not only pleases picky eaters but also simplifies your busy weeknight dinners. Best of all, you can prep it ahead of time, making it an effortlessly delicious choice for both busy days and special occasions. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing classic or simply a way to bring the family together over homemade goodness, this casserole delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. So put on your apron, and let’s dive into crafting this comforting dish together!
Why will you love this Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup?
Comforting Warmth: This casserole is a warm hug on a chilly night, beckoning loved ones to the table.
Effortless Preparation: With easy-to-find ingredients, even novice cooks can whip this up without stress.
Rich, Creamy Layers: Each mouthful reveals a delightful mix of flavors and textures—savory chicken, hearty potatoes, and crispy bacon unite under gooey cheese.
Make-Ahead Marvel: Prep it ahead of time and store it for busy days, making mealtime a breeze!
Family-Friendly Appeal: Perfect for picky eaters, it’s a dish that satisfies everyone’s comfort food cravings.
Chicken and Potato Casserole Ingredients
For the Creamy Base
- Cream of Chicken Soup – Provides richness and creaminess; Campbell’s is highly recommended for thickness.
- Cream of Potato Soup – Adds an extra layer of potato flavor and creaminess.
- Sour Cream (0.75 cup) – Contributes tanginess and smooth texture to the sauce.
- Milk (1 cup) – Thins the mixture for a perfect sauce consistency; opt for whole or 2%.
For Seasoning and Flavor
- Poultry Seasoning (0.5 tsp) – Enhances the natural chicken flavor; thyme or rosemary work as great substitutes.
- Garlic Powder (0.5 tsp) – Offers depth and flavor; fresh garlic can be used for more intensity.
- Black Pepper (0.25 tsp) – Adds a mild kick that complements the savory elements.
For the Casserole Components
- Cheddar Cheese (1.5 cups total) – Melts beautifully for a rich flavor; use sharp cheddar for a kick.
- Mixed Vegetables (1 cup) – Boosts nutrition and adds color; Birds Eye is a recommended brand for baking.
- Thick-Cut Bacon (0.75 cup) – Adds savory crunch; cook until crispy for the best result.
- Onion (0.25 cup) – Provides aromatic sweetness; finely dice to blend seamlessly.
- Chicken (4 cups) – The main protein; use cooked and shredded chicken, rotisserie saves time.
- Potatoes (5, peeled and cubed to ½-inch) – The base structure; keep uniform size for even cooking.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) – A melty topping; finely shredded for quick melting.
- Fried Onions (1.25 cups) – Used as a crunchy topping added towards the end of baking for that extra texture.
How to Make Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly cooked.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a little butter to prevent sticking. This will keep your delicious casserole intact when serving.
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Chop the Vegetables: Peel and cut the potatoes into ½-inch cubes for even cooking; take extra care to finely dice the onion too for better blending into the mix.
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Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy. Once cooked, crumble it into bite-sized pieces, adding a lovely crunch to your casserole.
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Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of potato soup, sour cream, milk, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Add Cheddar Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture. This will enrich the base with cheesy goodness and enhances the flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the potatoes, shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, crumbled bacon, and diced onion until everything is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in during the initial baking.
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Bake Until Tender: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are fork-tender.
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Add Toppings: Remove the casserole from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella cheese, and fried onions evenly on top.
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Final Bake: Return the dish to the oven uncovered, and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the onions are golden brown.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set up nicely for delicious slices.
Optional: For an extra crunch, serve with homemade croutons on top.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to assemble the casserole, then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. To maintain quality, make sure to keep it well-wrapped to prevent drying out in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through. You’ll still get that perfectly creamy and comforting result with minimal effort on busy nights!
Expert Tips for Chicken and Potato Casserole
Cut Potatoes Small: Ensure potatoes are cut into ½-inch cubes for even cooking; larger pieces can remain crunchy inside.
Cover Wisely: Always cover the casserole with foil during the first bake to retain moisture, preventing a dry texture.
Layer Toppings Last: Add cheese and fried onions in the last 8-10 minutes of baking to guarantee a gooey, golden topping for your Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: Opting for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and ensures tender chicken throughout the dish.
Mix Generously: Make sure all ingredients are well mixed in the creamy base so every bite bursts with flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup?
Bring your family gatherings to life with these delightful side dishes that will perfectly complement your creamy casserole.
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Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a splash of vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole. The crunch and acidity balance the creamy textures, making every bite delightful.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery garlic breadsticks are perfect for sopping up the savory sauce. Their warm, inviting aroma will have everyone reaching for more, enhancing the comforting atmosphere of your meal.
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Roasted Asparagus: With a sprinkle of grated parmesan, roasted asparagus offers a crunchy, slightly nutty contrast to the casserole. The bright green color adds a vibrant touch to your dinner table and a healthy balance.
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Sweet Corn on the Cob: This classic side dish brings sweetness and nostalgia to your meal. The juicy kernels perfectly complement the savory, creamy flavors of the casserole, making it ideal for family feasts.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crisp texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm comfort food. A tangy vinaigrette or creamy dressing will enhance the palette of flavors on your dinner plate.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Bright, refreshing lemonade pairs beautifully with the hearty casserole. The zesty, citrusy notes bring a cheerful touch to your gathering and help cleanse the palate between bites.
Consider these options to elevate your dinner experience and create an inviting atmosphere that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and label it before freezing. Add fried onions right before you bake.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat leftovers covered with foil at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. This preserves the creamy texture and prevents drying out.
- Thawing: If frozen, transfer the casserole to the fridge and allow it to thaw overnight before baking. This will ensure even cooking and great results.
Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup Variations
Get ready to make this dish your own! Here are some fun twists and substitutions to elevate your casserole experience.
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Turkey Swap: Use leftover shredded turkey instead of chicken for a festive spin, perfect for those post-Thanksgiving meals.
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Veggie Boost: Replace mixed vegetables with fresh or frozen broccoli or spinach; they’ll add nutrition and a pop of color.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Try swapping out cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick; the creamy base complements its heat beautifully.
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Low-Fat Option: Opt for low-fat cream soups and sour cream to lighten the recipe without sacrificing too much flavor.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the creamy mixture for an aromatic boost that brightens the dish.
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Hot and Spicy: Stir in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce before baking to add a delightful heat that’ll tingle your taste buds.
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Crunch Factor: Instead of fried onions, top with crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy topping that’s sure to please!
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Ingredient Cool-Down: For a vegetarian version, simply eliminate the chicken and bacon, doubling the vegetables for a hearty, meatless alternative.
These variations invite you to explore flavors and ingredients that suit your palate and dietary preferences, ensuring this casserole remains a family favorite!
Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! For this Chicken and Potato Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup, I recommend using a starchy variety like Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They will become tender and creamy when baked, providing the perfect base for your casserole.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Just make sure the casserole has completely cooled before sealing it tightly to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes! This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Assemble all the ingredients in a baking dish, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and label it. Just remember to add the fried onions only before baking, so they stay crispy!
What should I do if the potatoes are still hard after baking?
If you find the potatoes are still crunchy after the suggested baking time, don’t worry. You can cover the casserole with foil and bake it for an additional 15-20 minutes until they’re fork-tender. Always check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork; they should be tender.
Is this casserole suitable for picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! The Chicken and Potato Casserole is family-friendly and can easily be customized. If you have allergies, consider using gluten-free or dairy-free options for the cream soups and cheeses, or swap out ingredients like bacon for turkey bacon. It’s all about adapting to everyone’s needs!
Ultimate Chicken and Potato Casserole with Creamy Goodness
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- - Skillet
- - Large bowl
Ingredients
For the Creamy Base
- 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup Campbell's is highly recommended for thickness.
- 1 can Cream of Potato Soup Adds an extra layer of flavor.
- 0.75 cup Sour Cream Contributes tanginess and smooth texture.
- 1 cup Milk Opt for whole or 2%.
For Seasoning and Flavor
- 0.5 tsp Poultry Seasoning Enhances chicken flavor; thyme or rosemary are substitutes.
- 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for more intensity.
- 0.25 tsp Black Pepper Adds a mild kick.
For the Casserole Components
- 1.5 cups Cheddar Cheese Use sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
- 1 cup Mixed Vegetables Birds Eye recommended.
- 0.75 cup Thick-Cut Bacon Cook until crispy.
- 0.25 cup Onion Finely diced.
- 4 cups Chicken Cooked and shredded, rotisserie saves time.
- 5 pieces Potatoes Peeled and cubed to ½-inch.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Finely shredded for quick melting.
- 1.25 cups Fried Onions Added towards the end for texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
- Peel and cut the potatoes into ½-inch cubes; finely dice the onion.
- Cook the thick-cut bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble it.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of potato soup, sour cream, milk, poultry seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Gently fold in the potatoes, shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, crumbled bacon, and diced onion.
Baking
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 60-75 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Remove from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle with remaining cheddar, mozzarella cheese, and fried onions.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the onions are golden.
- Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.