Cheesy Chicken and Bread Casserole Recipe

Cheesy Chicken and Bread Casserole Recipe

Introduction

There’s something magical about a casserole dish — it’s the epitome of comfort food, offering a warm, hearty meal perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.

Among the endless variations, this Cheesy Chicken and Bread Casserole stands out with its irresistible combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and golden-brown bread cubes baked to perfection.

Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is bound to impress.

Its origins are inspired by classic chicken casserole dishes but with a modern twist that makes it perfect for all occasions.

The creamy cheese sauce combined with crisp bread chunks makes it both indulgent and satisfying. Ready to dive in and make your home smell like a cozy bakery? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering Cheesy Chicken and Bread Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base:

4 cups of cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded

4 cups of day-old bread, cut into bite-sized cubes

1/4 cup of butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon of onion powder

1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional for a smoky kick)

For the Sauce:

2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

1 1/2 cups of heavy cream

1/2 cup of chicken broth

1 teaspoon of dried parsley (or freshly chopped for garnish)

1/2 teaspoon of salt (adjust to taste)

1/4 teaspoon of black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

1/2 cup of diced bell peppers for a pop of color

1/2 cup of sautéed mushrooms for added earthiness

1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

• Toss the bread cubes with melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a large mixing bowl. This step ensures the bread cubes soak up the delicious seasoning and develop a crispy, golden texture when baked.

Step 3: Layer the Ingredients

• In the prepared casserole dish, spread half of the bread cubes evenly as the first layer. Next, add half of the chicken, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread cubes and chicken.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes, while continuously whisking.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

• Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered bread and chicken. Use a spatula to ensure the sauce seeps through all layers, soaking the bread cubes for maximum flavor. Sprinkle the top with remaining mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and a touch of parsley.

Step 6: Bake

• Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a professional touch.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken and Bread Casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Its rich, cheesy layers combined with the perfectly toasted bread make it a recipe worth repeating.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weekday meal, this dish has your back.

Plus, it’s endlessly customizable — feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add your favorite vegetables, or substitute the chicken with turkey or ham.

Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Don’t forget to enjoy it while it’s warm and gooey — the cheese pull is truly a sight to behold! We hope this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and smiles to your table. Happy cooking!