There’s something magical about a casserole—the way it transforms simple ingredients into a bubbling, golden dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. And when it comes to stretching a meal, nothing beats the humble chicken casserole. Whether you’ve got leftover rotisserie chicken, last night’s grilled breasts, or even a few stray shreds hiding in the fridge, these 13 recipes will help you turn those scraps into comfort food gold.
Picture this: tender chunks of chicken smothered in creamy sauces, mingling with pasta, rice, or veggies, all topped with a crispy, cheesy crust that crackles under your fork. From classic crowd-pleasers like chicken and wild rice casserole to bold twists like buffalo chicken bake or creamy pesto-and-sun-dried tomato goodness, these dishes prove that leftovers don’t have to be boring. In fact, they might just become the star of your next meal.
We’ve included recipes for every craving—some quick and easy for busy weeknights, others rich and indulgent for when you need a little extra coziness. Plus, tips on how to customize them with whatever you’ve got on hand (because who doesn’t love a dish that’s flexible?). So, grab that leftover chicken, dust off your favorite casserole dish, and get ready to bake up something delicious. Your future self—savoring every cheesy, savory bite—will thank you.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover chicken. The blend of tender pasta, rich Alfredo sauce, and juicy chicken creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
This baked pasta dish is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute different proteins to suit your taste. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—everything you want in a comforting casserole.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Casserole with Blue Cheese
This Buffalo Chicken Casserole with Blue Cheese is a crowd-pleaser that takes your leftover chicken and turns it into a deliciously creamy and spicy dish. With its rich flavors and a hint of tanginess from the blue cheese, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a game day feast.
Not only is this casserole packed with flavor, but it’s also super simple to make. Just combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, pasta, and cheese, then bake it all together for a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups cooked pasta (like rotini or penne)
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup blue cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, half of the blue cheese, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Top with the remaining blue cheese, cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious buffalo chicken casserole!
BBQ Chicken and Corn Bake
This BBQ Chicken and Corn Bake is a delightful way to transform leftover chicken into a mouthwatering meal. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and tangy BBQ sauce makes for a dish that’s packed with flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
The dish brings together comfort food elements with a touch of sweetness from the corn and a savory depth from the BBQ sauce. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers while delivering a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 2 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, corn, BBQ sauce, bell peppers, onion, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Spinach and Feta Chicken Casserole
This Spinach and Feta Chicken Casserole is a delightful way to use up leftover chicken while adding a healthy twist. The creamy blend of spinach and tangy feta cheese complements the savory chicken, creating a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.
The combination of flavors in this casserole is simply irresistible. You get the richness from the cheese, the freshness from the spinach, and the heartiness of the chicken—all baked together to create a deliciously creamy texture. Plus, it’s quick to throw together, giving you more time to enjoy your meal with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a casserole dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, chopped spinach, feta cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the cooked pasta until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. If using, add grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole is the perfect way to transform leftover chicken into a warm and comforting meal. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s bound to please everyone at the dinner table. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also super simple to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
The dish combines tender chicken and fluffy rice, all enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, topped with a crispy layer that adds a delightful crunch. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or cooking up some fresh chicken, this casserole is a surefire hit!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and mixed vegetables if using. Stir until well combined and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy sauce, all topped with buttery biscuit dough. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.
The beauty of this casserole is its versatility. You can use leftover chicken, which makes it a great way to transform yesterday’s dinner into something new and exciting. Plus, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1 package biscuit dough (about 10 pieces)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Mix well until everything is coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the biscuit dough pieces over the chicken mixture, leaving some space in between each piece.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cozy Chicken Pot Pie Casserole!
Mexican Chicken Casserole
This Mexican Chicken Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. Bursting with bold flavors and textures, it’s a perfect way to transform leftover chicken into a satisfying meal. Easy to make, it combines shredded chicken, vibrant veggies, and crispy tortilla chips, all topped off with melted cheese for an irresistible finish.
Every bite brings a taste of the Southwest with layers of black beans, bell peppers, and zesty spices. Ideal for busy weeknights, this casserole not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. Plus, it’s customizable—feel free to add your favorite toppings or ingredients!
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups tortilla chips
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, salsa, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a baking dish, layer half of the tortilla chips at the bottom. Top with half of the chicken mixture and half of the cheese.
- Add the remaining tortilla chips, followed by the rest of the chicken mixture, and finish with the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Bake
This Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for using up leftover chicken. With its rich, cheesy sauce and tender broccoli, it’s a dish that combines familiar flavors into a satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it to guests, this recipe is easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.
The creamy texture and delightful taste will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to bring this cozy casserole to your table!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup cooked pasta (like rotini or penne)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, broccoli, and cooked pasta.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and broccoli, and mix everything together until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. If you like, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunch.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and golden on top. Serve warm and enjoy!
Mediterranean Chicken Bake
Mediterranean Chicken Bake is a delicious way to transform leftover chicken into a mouthwatering meal. This dish combines tender chicken with vibrant Mediterranean flavors, including olives, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, creating a delightful blend of tastes that transport you to sunny shores.
Not only is it simple to prepare, but the one-pan nature of this casserole makes cleanup a breeze. Just toss everything together, let it bake, and enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup green olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and pour the chicken broth over the top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Bake with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad!
Teriyaki Chicken Casserole
Teriyaki Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that marries tender chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, creating a comforting meal perfect for any night. This casserole is not just delicious; it’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, transforming simple ingredients into something special.
With its mix of rice, colorful veggies, and rich flavors, this recipe is super simple to make. Just combine everything in a baking dish, let the oven do its magic, and you’ll have a hearty dish that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and carrots)
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice, teriyaki sauce, mixed vegetables, and half of the green onions. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with shredded cheese and the remaining green onions.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving, if desired.
Herbed Chicken Casserole with Grains
This Herbed Chicken Casserole with Grains is a delightful way to use up leftover chicken while creating a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, wholesome grains, and vibrant veggies makes it a satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner.
The dish features a medley of herbs that elevate the taste, making it comforting and nutritious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with your choice of grains or vegetables. Enjoy a bowl of this warm casserole that feels like a hug on a plate!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked grains (like barley or quinoa)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked grains, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the top is slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Casserole
This Chicken and Mushroom Risotto Casserole is a delightful way to transform leftover chicken into a creamy, comforting dish. Rich in flavor, it combines tender chicken pieces with earthy mushrooms and creamy risotto, making it a perfect family meal.
Easy to prepare, this recipe allows you to enjoy the comforting essence of risotto without the usual labor of constant stirring. The casserole bakes to perfection, offering a creamy consistency and a golden crust on top.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
- Stir in the mushrooms and cook until tender. Add the arborio rice, stirring to coat.
- Gradually add chicken broth, one cup at a time, allowing it to absorb before adding the next. Stir continuously for about 20 minutes.
- Once the rice is creamy and tender, mix in the shredded chicken, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Curry Chicken and Vegetable Bake
Curry Chicken and Vegetable Bake is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and an array of colorful vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and aromatic curry sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to use up leftover chicken.
The blend of spices creates a warm, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the sauce. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it a wholesome meal for the whole family. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
- Add the butternut squash and red bell pepper, cooking for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the coconut milk and stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve warm.
Final Thoughts
Leftovers don’t have to mean reheating the same meal on repeat. With these chicken casserole recipes, you’re not just saving food—you’re upgrading it into something even better. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or just craving a no-fuss dinner that tastes like home, these dishes deliver comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. So next time you spot that container of leftover chicken in the fridge, don’t sigh—smile. Because dinner just got a whole lot more exciting.