This comforting Ground Chicken Country Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner—easy, hearty, and full of homey flavor. Ground chicken is sautéed with onions, garlic, and vegetables, then baked in a creamy, savory sauce with rice or pasta. Finished with melted cheddar cheese and a golden, buttery cracker topping, this dish delivers cozy satisfaction in every bite. Great for feeding a family and even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Budget-friendly ingredients
High-protein and family-approved
Great for weeknight meals or potlucks
Easy to prep ahead and freeze
Made with pantry staples

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Filling

1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics and chicken.
500g (1 lb) ground chicken – Lean protein base of the casserole.
1 small onion, diced – Adds savory depth.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Brings aromatic punch.
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables – A colorful medley of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans for texture and nutrition.

Seasonings

1 tsp salt + ½ tsp black pepper – Basic flavor balance.
½ tsp onion powder – Boosts savory depth.
½ tsp dried thyme – Earthy herb that enhances the country-style flavor.
½ tsp paprika – Adds warmth and color.

Creamy Binder

1 can (300g/10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – The creamy, savory foundation (store-bought or homemade).
½ cup sour cream – Adds richness and tang.
¼ cup milk – Helps loosen the sauce to a perfect consistency.
1½ cups cooked white rice or elbow macaroni – Makes it hearty and filling.

Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully into a golden top layer.
½ cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs – Crunchy, buttery topping.
2 tbsp melted butter – Binds the crumbs and adds flavor.

Tips and Tricks

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for a quicker version.
Replace sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
Add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on the topping.

Variations and Customizations

Low-Carb Option: Use riced cauliflower instead of white rice.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
Mexican Twist: Use taco seasoning and swap cheddar for pepper jack.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and coconut cream alternatives.

Pairing Suggestions

Drinks: Iced tea, sparkling water, or a light Chardonnay
Sides: Garlic bread, green beans almondine, or cucumber salad
Dessert: Apple crisp or no-bake lemon cheesecake

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze the unbaked or baked casserole (without the topping) for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

Ground Chicken Country Casserole

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Savory chicken & veggies baked in a creamy sauce with rice or pasta, topped with melted cheddar and buttery crackers—pure comfort in every bite!

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
500g (1 lb) ground chicken
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon paprika
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup milk
1½ cups cooked white rice or small pasta
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×9-inch casserole dish or equivalent.

2. Sauté the Chicken and Veggies

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced onion and cook until soft (3–4 minutes).
Stir in minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds.
Add ground chicken, breaking it up as it browns. Cook until no longer pink.
Season with salt, pepper, thyme, paprika, and onion powder.

3. Add the Vegetables

Stir in frozen mixed vegetables. Cook for 2–3 minutes until just tender.

4. Combine with Creamy Base

In a large bowl, mix together:
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Milk
Fold in the cooked rice or pasta and the chicken-veggie mixture. Mix well.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Add Crunchy Topping

Combine crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter.
Sprinkle over the cheese for a golden, crispy top.

7. Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
For a crispier crust, broil for 2–3 minutes, watching carefully.

8. Cool and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve with a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Notes

This Ground Chicken Country Casserole is a wholesome and hearty comfort food that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or stocking your freezer, this recipe delivers unbeatable flavor, texture, and nutrition—all in one dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American