Mouthwatering Chicken and Cornbread Casserole Recipe: Easy Weeknight Dinner with a Twist

There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to bring a little joy to your day, and this Chicken and Cornbread Casserole is no exception. Imagine tender chunks of chicken mixed with a creamy, savory sauce, topped with a sweet and golden cornbread crust. Each bite is a combination of creamy, cheesy goodness balanced by the slight sweetness and crunch of cornbread. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, this dish will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

This casserole is an all-time favorite in my household, bringing together flavors that are familiar yet exciting. The dish itself came into my life when I was searching for an easy dinner that would satisfy my family's craving for comfort food without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe is inspired by one I found at Insanely Good Recipes, and I’ve added a few twists to make it my own. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for those busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

A Little History and Fun Fact

Chicken casseroles, especially those that use cream of chicken soup, are classic American comfort foods dating back to the mid-20th century. They became especially popular when people needed quick and filling meals that used pantry staples. Cornbread, on the other hand, has deep roots in Southern cuisine, often served as a side but here elevated to the star of the show in a satisfying casserole. Together, these two favorites create a comforting dish that’s both nostalgic and perfect for modern tastes.

The Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need for this Cheesy Chicken and Cornbread Casserole:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cubed cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 (8.5-ounce) box Jiffy cornbread mix
• 1 (14.75-ounce) can creamed corn
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything well and pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
3. In a separate bowl, stir together the Jiffy cornbread mix, creamed corn, egg, and melted butter until combined. Carefully spread this cornbread batter over the chicken mixture, covering it evenly.
4. Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy finish.
5. Bake the dish uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cornbread comes out clean.
6. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. For a finishing touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions if you like.

Pro Tip: For a bit of extra nutrition and texture, consider stirring in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the chicken mixture before baking. Not only does this add more flavor, but it also makes the dish a little healthier.

Variations and Pairings

For a lighter version, you could swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt, or use a reduced-fat cheddar. Want to make it vegetarian? Simply replace the chicken with a plant-based alternative or add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.

As for side dishes, this casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of soup for a complete meal. If you're hosting a gathering, serve it alongside a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade to balance the warmth of the dish.

Call to Action

Did you try this Cheesy Chicken and Cornbread Casserole? Let me know how it turned out! Feel free to leave a comment below, share this recipe with your friends, and don’t forget to follow me for more delicious, easy-to-make meals.