Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes – Simple Comfort Food You’ll Love

Introduction to Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes

What Makes Chicken Casseroles a Family Favorite?

Chicken casseroles have stood the test of time because they’re everything a good meal should be—affordable, satisfying, and customizable. With the right easy chicken casserole recipes, you can whip up a crowd-pleasing dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

These dishes are popular in countless American homes because:

• They’re budget-friendly: You can stretch a few chicken breasts across several servings.
• They’re customizable: Add pasta, rice, or frozen veggies depending on what you’ve got.
• They’re picky-eater approved: Chicken, cheese, and carbs? Always a win.
• They’re perfect for leftovers: In fact, most chicken casserole recipes taste even better reheated.

And let’s not forget convenience—casseroles are ideal for batch cooking. Double your ingredients, bake one for now, and freeze one for later. It’s why easy chicken casserole recipes continue to be a go-to for weeknight meals and potlucks alike.

Why Choose Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes Over Complicated Meals?

We all know life gets hectic. That’s why easy chicken casserole recipes are a blessing for busy households. They deliver full flavor with half the effort. Instead of juggling five pans and 12 ingredients, you can build a delicious one-dish dinner with just a handful of essentials.

Here’s why they work so well:

• Less prep and cleanup
• Fewer dishes
• More time to unwind
• A hearty, feel-good meal every time

Whether you’re working with rotisserie chicken, canned soup, or just a few pantry staples, you’ll find that the best chicken casserole recipes are those that combine simplicity with rich flavor.

Check out this popular crock pot cheesy chicken and rice recipe for a hands-off version that’s just as satisfying as oven-baked meals.

Basic Foundations of a Chicken Casserole

Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes – Simple Comfort Food You’ll Love

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• Author: Chef Clara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

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Description

These Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes bring comforting, family-friendly meals to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re using leftovers, planning ahead with freezer-friendly versions, or accommodating dietary needs, these one-pan dishes are packed with flavor and save time. From creamy Alfredo bakes to spicy Tex-Mex twists, there’s a casserole here for every taste and occasion.

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Ingredients

1. – 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (leftover or rotisserie)
2. – 2 cups cooked pasta or rice
3. – 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
4. – 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
5. – 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
6. – 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
7. – 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
8. – 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
9. – Salt and pepper to taste
10. – 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
11. – 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

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Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
• 2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cooked pasta or rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheese, vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• 3. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
• 4. In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter.
• 5. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
• 6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
• 7. If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden topping.
• 8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Swap cream of mushroom or celery for variety

Use rotisserie chicken to save time

Add garlic or onion powder for extra flavor

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

How to Make a Basic Chicken Casserole Step by Step

The secret behind the most-loved easy chicken casserole recipes is how effortless they are to prepare. With pantry staples and minimal cleanup, you can put together a wholesome dinner that’s rich in flavor and texture. If you’ve got leftover chicken and a few simple sides, you’re already halfway there.

Let’s take a look at how these popular dishes come together with ease.

Core Elements of a Traditional Chicken Casserole

Most easy chicken casserole recipes follow a predictable but flexible formula. You can mix and match based on what’s in your fridge, making it one of the most practical meals for busy weeknights.

• Chicken (Main Protein): Pre-cooked options like shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled pieces, or even baked leftovers work great.
• Creamy Base (Binder): Choose from cream of chicken, cream of mushroom, or cream of celery soup to give your casserole its rich texture.
• Starch Element: Add cooked rice, macaroni, egg noodles, or biscuit dough to fill out the dish and absorb the flavors.
• Vegetables: Frozen veggies like peas, corn, broccoli, or carrots are classic additions that boost nutrition and color.
• Topping: Finish with shredded cheese, crushed crackers, or seasoned breadcrumbs for the perfect crunchy contrast.

This structure keeps your recipe versatile, so you can adjust quantities or ingredients and still enjoy that cozy, baked goodness these chicken casserole dishes are known for.

Step-by-Step Chicken Casserole Preparation

Use this no-fail method to bring your recipe to life in less than an hour:

With this base method, you can explore countless easy chicken casserole recipes by simply switching up the mix-ins or seasonings.

Want something with Southern comfort? Learn more about chicken and dressing recipe if you’re craving that down-home casserole experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools and Pantry Must-Haves

To simplify prep and cooking, keep these tools on hand:

• 9×13-inch casserole or baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil (optional for covering or storing)

As for ingredients, here’s what to stock up on to make your next easy chicken casserole a breeze:

• Canned condensed soups: chicken, mushroom, celery
• Frozen veggies: broccoli, peas, corn, carrots
• Starches: rice, pasta, biscuit dough
• Shredded cheeses: cheddar, mozzarella, Colby-Jack
• Basic seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, pepper

These staples are key to building last-minute meals that taste like you spent hours cooking. With the right combinations, easy chicken casserole recipes can easily become your go-to family favorite.

Looking to switch things up? Don’t miss our guide on Dutch oven chicken breast recipes to discover slow-cooked comfort meals with the same homey feel.

4-Ingredient Chicken Casseroles – Minimal Effort, Big Flavor

What Are the 4 Ingredients in a Simple Chicken Casserole?

If you’re short on time but still want a home-cooked meal, 4-ingredient chicken casseroles are a lifesaver. These versions of easy chicken casserole recipes skip the fuss without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to minimize their grocery list, these dishes prove that less really can be more.

Here’s a breakdown of what typically goes into a 4-ingredient chicken casserole:

1. Cooked Chicken – Shredded rotisserie, grilled, or leftover chicken breast
2. Creamy Soup Base – Usually cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup
3. Starch – Cooked rice or pasta (like penne or egg noodles)
4. Topping – Shredded cheddar cheese, crushed Ritz crackers, or seasoned breadcrumbs

That’s it! With those four, you’ve got a meal that’s warm, filling, and ready to hit the oven.

These simple easy chicken casserole recipes are perfect for nights when you’re running low on time, energy, or ingredients—but still want something delicious on the table.

Top Variations Using Pantry Staples

While the classic 4-ingredient combo is great, you can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few creative variations that still stick to the four-ingredient rule:

These combos make it easy to serve easy chicken casserole recipes that are fast but flavorful. You don’t need fancy ingredients—just smart pairings that bring comfort and taste together.

Need more dinner ideas like this? Looking for inspiration? Try this chicken for breakfast guide to see how chicken can be a star morning or night.

5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipes

What Is a 5 Ingredient Chicken Casserole?

If four ingredients can deliver comfort and convenience, adding just one more can elevate your dish from basic to bold. 5-ingredient chicken casseroles strike the perfect balance between simplicity and variety—making them a favorite among fans of easy chicken casserole recipes.

A 5-ingredient casserole includes everything you love in a standard bake but gives you room to play with flavor, texture, or nutrition. That fifth element could be a seasoning mix, a veggie, a crunchy topping, or a surprise ingredient that ties everything together.

Here’s a typical 5-ingredient combo:

1. Shredded or diced chicken
2. Condensed cream soup
3. Cooked starch (rice, pasta, or potatoes)
4. Vegetable (fresh, frozen, or canned)
5. Topping (shredded cheese, crackers, or even French-fried onions)

That extra ingredient might not sound like much—but it makes all the difference in taste and presentation.

Best 5-Ingredient Combinations to Try Tonight

To inspire your next dinner, here are some of the best combos you can throw together in minutes, especially if you already keep pantry basics on hand:

These combinations take only minutes to prepare and use ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. That’s the magic of easy chicken casserole recipes—maximum payoff with minimum effort.

Want something a little richer and creamier? Don’t miss our guide on crock pot cheesy chicken and rice for a melt-in-your-mouth dinner that’s hands-free and family-friendly.

Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly Chicken Casseroles

Why Make-Ahead Casseroles Are a Time-Saving Hero

One major reason busy families lean on easy chicken casserole recipes is their effortless support for meal prep. Whether you’re dealing with packed weekdays, managing late shifts, or juggling after-school activities, having casseroles assembled ahead of time is a genuine lifesaver.

A little planning means you can serve a warm, hearty dinner—without the evening chaos.

Big Benefits of Prepping Ahead

• Cuts down kitchen time on busy nights
• Fewer dishes—just bake, serve, and enjoy
• Ideal for batch cooking and storing leftovers
• Smart way to repurpose cooked chicken, rice, or veggies

Another perk of prepping easy chicken casserole recipes ahead? Flavors often deepen overnight, making your next-day meals even more delicious.

How to Prepare Casseroles in Advance

Most chicken casserole dishes can be assembled completely before baking. Choose your prep method based on how far ahead you’re planning:

Refrigerator Prep (1–2 Days in Advance)

• Build the casserole in a 9×13” dish
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil
• Store in the fridge for up to 48 hours
• Bake as usual, adding 5–10 minutes if straight from the fridge

Freezer Prep (Store for Up to 3 Months)

• Use a freezer-safe or disposable foil pan
• Assemble but don’t bake
• Wrap well with two layers of foil or vacuum seal
• Label clearly with name, date, and instructions
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for best texture

Prepping and freezing easy chicken casserole recipes helps you take advantage of ingredient deals, reduces food waste, and ensures dinner is never far away.

Tips for Freezer Success

Keep your freezer-friendly casseroles flavorful and texture-perfect with these best practices:

• Avoid using raw vegetables with high water content (like zucchini)
• Use fully cooked pasta or rice to prevent sogginess
• Under-season slightly before freezing—spices intensify over time
• Bake frozen casseroles uncovered at 350°F for 45–60 minutes

Top Freezer-Ready Chicken Combos

These family-favorite easy chicken casserole recipes are tried, true, and freezer-friendly:

• Creamy Chicken & Rice Bake – A cozy, traditional dinner that holds up well after freezing
• Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Bake – Loaded with flavor and kid-friendly veggies
• Tex-Mex Chicken Casserole – Zesty mix of shredded chicken, salsa, corn, and black beans
• Spinach Artichoke Chicken Bake – Creamy, comforting, and impressive enough for guests

Each recipe follows the dependable format of easy chicken casserole recipes—minimal ingredients, hearty portions, and all-in-one cooking convenience.

Smart Portioning Tips for Busy Families

To simplify your week even more, freeze casseroles in individual servings:

• Try silicone muffin trays or divided freezer-safe meal containers
• Wrap slices in parchment paper and store in resealable freezer bags
• Label each portion with the date and reheating directions

This strategy lets you reheat just what you need—no waste, no mess.

Looking for more prep-ahead comfort food? Don’t miss our recipe guide on Crock Pot Cheesy Chicken and Rice—a freezer-ready slow-cooker dish that hits the spot on any busy night.

One-Pan Chicken Casserole Ideas for Quick Clean-Up

Why One-Pan Dinners Are Every Home Cook’s Dream

When weeknight chaos kicks in, nothing is more appreciated than easy chicken casserole recipes that require just one pan. With fewer dishes to wash and all the flavors cooking together, one-pan casseroles are a dream for busy cooks looking for a satisfying, no-fuss solution.

These all-in-one meals bring you hearty dinners—without the long prep or cleanup time.

Benefits of One-Pan Chicken Casseroles

• Cuts both prep and cleanup time in half
• Simplifies cooking with fewer steps
• Perfect for small kitchens with limited cookware
• Enhances flavor by letting everything cook together

Whether you’re navigating a full schedule or just want to streamline dinner, easy chicken casserole recipes made in one pan offer comfort and convenience in every bite.

Must-Have Tools for One-Pan Casserole Success

To get the most out of your one-pan chicken casserole, having the right equipment is key:

Flavor-Packed One-Pan Chicken Combos to Try

Each of these easy chicken casserole recipes requires just one dish—but don’t let that fool you. They’re loaded with flavor and designed for minimal cleanup.

1. Creamy Chicken Mushroom Skillet

• Chicken breasts
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Garlic cream sauce
• Baby spinach
• Shredded Parmesan

Everything simmers in one skillet and finishes under the broiler for a golden topping.

2. Southwest Chicken Sheet Pan Bake

• Chicken tenders
• Bell peppers & onions
• Salsa seasoning
• Black beans & corn
• Shredded cheddar

This Tex-Mex casserole bakes on one sheet pan and delivers smoky, satisfying flavor.

3. Tuscan Chicken & Gnocchi Bake

• Chicken thighs
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Baby kale or spinach
• Garlic cream sauce
• Shelf-stable gnocchi

An elegant yet simple one-pan recipe perfect for busy nights or weekend dinners.

4. Lemon Chicken Orzo Skillet

• Boneless chicken thighs
• Lemon zest & garlic
• Orzo pasta
• Chicken broth
• Herbs like parsley or thyme

This Mediterranean-style skillet dinner is zesty, fresh, and satisfying—all in one pan.

Time-Saving One-Pan Tips

Boost the ease and efficiency of your easy chicken casserole recipes with these kitchen-tested tricks:

• Pre-sauté onions, garlic, or spices in the same dish to deepen flavor
• Use parboiled grains or pasta to reduce cook time
• Add fresh greens at the end to preserve texture
• Choose broiler-safe pans for cheesy or crispy toppings

Why One-Pan Chicken Dinners Work for Everyone

These dishes are versatile, freezer-friendly, and great for families or solo cooks. Whether you’re prepping meals for the week or need a last-minute dinner idea, easy chicken casserole recipes made in one pan are:

• Easy to double or scale down
• Great for storing in fridge or freezer
• Perfect for using up leftover chicken or vegetables
• Budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor

Looking for more easy, flavorful inspiration? Check out our Dutch Oven Chicken Breast Recipes—a perfect addition to your one-pan meal rotation.

Customizing Chicken Casseroles for Dietary Needs

Why Personalizing Your Casserole Matters

Today’s families often follow a wide range of dietary lifestyles—gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, low-sodium, or low-fat. The best part? Easy chicken casserole recipes are naturally flexible. With just a few substitutions, you can enjoy all the cozy flavor of a one-dish dinner while meeting everyone’s individual nutrition goals.

Whether you’re cooking for food allergies or just trying to eat cleaner, you don’t have to give up comfort food to stay on track.

How to Adapt Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes for Special Diets

Gluten-Free Chicken Casseroles

Going gluten-free doesn’t mean giving up your favorite casseroles. Try these simple swaps:

• Use gluten-free pasta, quinoa, or brown rice as your base
• Thicken sauces with arrowroot powder or cornstarch instead of flour
• Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko, crushed cornflakes, or rice crackers

Also, check labels on sauces, broths, and cheeses to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Dairy-Free Chicken Casseroles

Craving creamy chicken bakes without the dairy? You’ve got options:

• Choose unsweetened oat milk, almond milk, or coconut milk
• Swap regular cheese with dairy-free shredded cheese or nutritional yeast
• Make rich sauces with cashew cream or plant-based roux (olive oil + flour alternative)

With a few seasonings—think garlic, smoked paprika, or Italian herbs—you’ll never miss the dairy.

Low-Sodium Chicken Casseroles

Many store-bought casseroles are overloaded with salt. Here’s how to keep things flavorful and heart-friendly:

• Use low-sodium broth or make your own
• Skip condensed soups—use unsalted butter, flour, and milk to create a homemade sauce
• Season with lemon juice, fresh herbs, and salt-free seasoning blends

This way, your dinner still packs flavor while supporting a low-sodium lifestyle.

Low-Fat & Heart-Healthy Chicken Casseroles

Lighter doesn’t have to mean boring. Transform your favorite easy chicken casserole recipes with these healthy tips:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breast instead of thighs
• Sub Greek yogurt or low-fat milk for heavy cream
• Sauté with olive oil rather than butter
• Add fiber-rich veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers

These swaps keep the texture and comfort—without the added fat.

Vegetarian or Flexitarian Chicken Casseroles

It might sound surprising, but many easy chicken casserole recipes can be turned meatless or semi-vegetarian:

• Swap chicken for tofu, chickpeas, lentils, or black beans
• Add mushrooms, zucchini, or cauliflower for a meaty bite
• Use less meat and more plant-based ingredients for a flexitarian approach

This makes your casserole more affordable, more colorful, and great for all eaters at the table.

Mix-and-Match Casserole Framework (Diet-Friendly)

Want to build your own personalized casserole? Use this simple structure:

Customize to match your goals and taste. Don’t forget to season with bold flavors like garlic, chili flakes, or smoked paprika.

Why Adaptable Casseroles Work for Modern Families

The most-loved easy chicken casserole recipes are more than just crowd-pleasers—they’re meal-prep powerhouses. By adapting them to your family’s dietary needs, you keep dinner stress-free and everyone satisfied.

Creative Leftover Chicken Casserole Recipes

Why Leftover Chicken Is a Weeknight MVP

Got leftover rotisserie or baked chicken in your fridge? Don’t let it go to waste. Repurposing it into easy chicken casserole recipes is not just smart—it’s delicious. With a few pantry staples and clever pairings, you can serve a hearty, homemade dinner in under an hour.

This method helps reduce food waste, stretch your grocery budget, and eliminate the usual dinner stress on busy weeknights.

Top Benefits of Using Leftover Chicken

• Saves time—no need to cook meat from scratch
• Cost-effective—maximize the value of pre-cooked rotisserie chicken
• Boosts flavor—leftover chicken is often already seasoned
• Scales easily for individuals, couples, or families

The biggest benefit? Easy chicken casserole recipes give your leftovers new life while keeping meals quick and satisfying.

Best Chicken Types for Casseroles

Not all leftovers are created equal, but most cooked chicken varieties work beautifully in a casserole:

• Rotisserie chicken – Already seasoned, juicy, and easy to shred
• Grilled chicken breasts – Slice or cube for protein-packed layers
• Roasted thighs or drumsticks – Remove bones and shred for richness
• Poached chicken – Mild flavor, great for creamy bases

Pro Tip: Shred or chop chicken into bite-sized pieces to ensure even flavor and texture in every bite.

Try These Leftover Chicken Casserole Recipes

1. Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

Use: Leftover chicken breast
Add: Cooked penne, broccoli, creamy Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella
Why it works: Creamy and indulgent, yet incredibly simple. Comfort food done fast.

2. Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese

Use: Spicy rotisserie chicken
Add: Macaroni, cheddar, hot sauce, ranch seasoning
Why it works: Cheesy, spicy, and bold. A game-day crowd-pleaser.

3. BBQ Chicken & Sweet Potato Bake

Use: Pulled or grilled chicken
Add: Roasted sweet potatoes, red onion, corn, BBQ sauce, shredded cheddar
Why it works: Smoky, sweet, and hearty—great for cool evenings.

4. Mexican Chicken Rice Casserole

Use: Neutral or seasoned chicken
Add: Brown rice, black beans, bell peppers, salsa, Monterey Jack
Bonus: Top with crushed tortilla chips or sliced avocado for flair.

5. Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Use: Breaded or plain cooked chicken
Add: Marinara sauce, mozzarella, garlic breadcrumbs
Why it works: All the flavor of chicken parm with zero frying—straight to the oven.

Quick Ingredient Match Guide

These combos bring out the best in your leftovers while keeping your easy chicken casserole recipes full of flavor and variety.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your leftovers tasting fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days
• Freeze: Keep in portioned containers or foil pans for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F or microwave with a splash of milk or broth to retain moisture

Always label containers with the name and date—your future self will thank you.

Why Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes Are Perfect for Leftovers

Turning leftovers into easy chicken casserole recipes is more than just smart cooking—it’s a way to:

• Avoid waste
• Save prep time and money
• Add variety to your weeknight meal rotation
• Make meal prep less repetitive and more enjoyable

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FAQs About Easy Chicken Casserole Recipe

How to make a basic chicken casserole?

Making a basic chicken casserole is surprisingly simple. Start with cooked chicken (like rotisserie or grilled breast), combine it with a starch such as pasta, rice, or potatoes, and mix in a sauce—cream-based, tomato, or even soup. Add vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake in a 350°F oven for 30–40 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Pro Tip: Most easy chicken casserole recipes follow this same formula: protein, veggie, starch, sauce, and topping.

What are the 4 ingredients in chicken casserole?

The simplest versions of easy chicken casserole recipes often include just four core ingredients:

1. Chicken (cooked and shredded)
2. Creamy soup or sauce (like cream of mushroom or Alfredo)
3. Pasta or rice
4. Cheese (shredded cheddar or mozzarella)

These four basics can be layered or mixed in a casserole dish and baked for an ultra-easy, satisfying dinner.

What is a 5 ingredient chicken casserole?

A 5-ingredient chicken casserole adds just one more item to the basic list—usually a vegetable or topping. A popular version includes:

• Cooked chicken
• Cream of chicken soup
• Cooked rice
• Frozen broccoli
• Shredded cheese

Mix and bake at 350°F until heated through and the top is golden. This is one of the most reliable easy chicken casserole recipes for beginners or busy nights.

What’s the difference between a chicken stew and a casserole?

While both are hearty and comforting, the key difference lies in the cooking method and consistency:

• Chicken stew is a stovetop dish, typically simmered with broth and vegetables until tender. It’s more soup-like, with a liquid base.
• Chicken casserole, especially in easy chicken casserole recipes, is baked in the oven, has less liquid, and often includes cheese or a crusty topping for texture.

Stews are great for spooning into bowls, while casseroles are meant to be sliced and served on plates.

Conclusion: Easy Chicken Casserole Recipes for Every Kitchen

From make-ahead freezer meals to leftover makeovers and diet-friendly adaptations, easy chicken casserole recipes offer a comforting, time-saving solution for today’s busy households. With just a few ingredients, one baking dish, and a little creativity, you can whip up dinners that satisfy everyone—without breaking your budget or your schedule.

Whether you’re looking for a low-carb twist, a veggie-packed option, or a one-pan meal that’s ready in under an hour, these casseroles bring together everything we love about home-cooked meals: warmth, convenience, and big flavor.

Need more delicious ideas?
Don’t miss our family-friendly roundup of Healthy Chicken Meal Prep Ideas—your go-to for balanced, stress-free weekday dinners.