If you’re craving a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Yum Yum Chicken Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender chopped chicken, creamy soups, and a golden, buttery cornbread stuffing topping that crisps up beautifully in the oven. This casserole is not only a breeze to prepare but also packs rich flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Yum Yum Chicken Casserole Recipe. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the creamy soups that add velvety richness to the fluffy cornbread stuffing that creates a delightful crunch. Together, they make the perfect harmony of comfort food flavors.
- 1½ lb chopped cooked chicken: Choose tender chicken breast or thigh meat, chopped into bite-sized pieces for even layering and texture.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a smooth tanginess and creamy texture that binds the casserole together.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Unsalted Cream of Chicken Soup: A rich base that enhances the savory chicken flavor without overpowering.
- 1 (10.5-oz) can Cream of Celery Soup: Brings a subtle vegetal note and adds moisture to keep the casserole luscious.
- 1 (6-oz) box cornbread stuffing (uncooked, Stove Top or Pepperidge Farm): Forms a golden, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers beneath.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Moisturizes the stuffing and infuses extra chicken flavor.
- 4 Tbsp melted butter: Poured over the stuffing for a rich, crunchy finish.
How to Make Yum Yum Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lightly spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly, which is key to that irresistible crust and tender interior.
Step 2: Layer the Chicken
Spread the chopped cooked chicken evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This layer acts as the hearty base, so spreading it uniformly helps every bite have a perfect balance of chicken.
Step 3: Mix and Spread the Creamy Soup Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and then spread this luscious mixture evenly over the chicken. This creamy layer ensures the casserole remains moist and flavorful during baking.
Step 4: Add the Cornbread Stuffing and Butter Broth
Sprinkle the uncooked cornbread stuffing evenly over the soup mixture. If your stuffing mix has a separate herb packet, be sure to include it on top of the stuffing for maximum flavor. Next, mix the chicken broth and melted butter together and pour this mixture evenly over the stuffing, which helps it crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 minutes. This gives the casserole enough time to bubble and the cornbread topping to turn a gorgeous golden brown, delivering that irresistible crispy crunch contrasted against the creamy layers beneath.
How to Serve Yum Yum Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Though the casserole is already bursting with flavor, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives lifts the dish visually and adds a hint of fresh brightness that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of the sides offers a perfect contrast to the hearty, creamy casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual portions in mini ramekins to make the meal feel extra special, especially for entertaining. Alternatively, topping each serving with a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar before baking adds a gooey, melty cheese layer that’s impossible to resist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Yum Yum Chicken Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moist texture while allowing the flavors to meld even further.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it up to the baking step and cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap before freezing. When ready, bake it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in a 350ºF oven until warmed through. A quick broil at the end restores the crispy topping and keeps the casserole tasting freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Using cooked chicken is best for this casserole because it ensures the chicken stays tender and the dish doesn’t dry out during baking. If you’d like to use fresh chicken, pre-cook it by poaching or roasting before assembling the casserole.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a vegan sour cream, and choose dairy-free cream soups if available. Melted plant-based butter works well in place of regular butter too.
What can I add to make this casserole more flavorful?
Adding diced onions, garlic, or sautéed mushrooms to the chicken layer can deepen the flavor. A touch of paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the soup mixture also adds a subtle kick that’s delightful.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance for a party?
Absolutely! This Yum Yum Chicken Casserole Recipe is great for make-ahead meals. Assemble the casserole the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, then bake just before your guests arrive for a warm, comforting dish.
What if I don’t have cornbread stuffing mix?
If cornbread stuffing isn’t available, you can substitute with plain cornbread crumbs or even a traditional bread stuffing mix. The key is to keep it uncooked and crunchy to provide that perfect topping texture.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the comforting charm of this Yum Yum Chicken Casserole Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to bring out for company. So go ahead, gather these simple ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. You’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Yum Yum Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Yum Yum Chicken is a comforting baked casserole featuring tender chopped cooked chicken smothered in a creamy mixture of sour cream and cream soups, topped with a buttery cornbread stuffing that bakes to a golden, crispy finish. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a family dinner and delivers hearty flavors with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ lb chopped cooked chicken
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5-oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1 (10.5-oz) can cream of celery soup
Stuffing Topping
- 1 (6-oz) box cornbread stuffing (uncooked, Stove Top or Pepperidge Farm)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 Tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the chicken: Spread the chopped cooked chicken evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This forms the hearty base of the casserole.
- Mix and add creamy sauce: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and sour cream until smooth. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the chicken layer to create a rich and flavorful topping.
- Add stuffing topping: Sprinkle the uncooked cornbread stuffing evenly over the creamy sauce layer. If your stuffing mix includes a separate herb packet, sprinkle the herbs over the stuffing now for added flavor.
- Pour broth and butter mixture: In a small bowl, mix the chicken broth with the melted butter. Pour this mixture evenly over the stuffing layer to moisten and bind it, which helps the stuffing bake to a crisp, golden topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the stuffing topping is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftover from previous meals or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Ensure the stuffing package’s herb packet, if separate, is sprinkled on top for optimal flavor.
- For a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- This dish can be prepared ahead up to assembling the casserole; refrigerate uncovered for a few hours before baking.
- Adjust salt levels by choosing regular or low-sodium soups and broth based on dietary needs.
