Here’s a delicious Crunchy Chicken Casserole Recipe – creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crispy layer that makes it irresistible. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks! 

 Crunchy Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great)
• 2 cups cooked egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom)
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme (or oregano)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Crunchy Topping:

• 2 cups crushed cornflakes (or Ritz crackers / panko breadcrumbs)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven & Dish

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

2. Make the Creamy Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, garlic, onion, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir in shredded chicken, cooked noodles, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

4. Prepare Crunchy Topping

1. In a bowl, mix crushed cornflakes (or Ritz/panko) with melted butter and Parmesan.
2. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.

5. Bake

• Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.

6. Serve

• Garnish with parsley before serving.
• Serve warm with a side salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.

Tips & Variations

• Veggie Boost: Add frozen peas, broccoli, or mushrooms to the chicken mixture.
• Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in some pepper jack or Monterey Jack for extra cheesy flavor.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without topping), cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add topping right before baking.
• Freezer-Friendly: Wrap unbaked casserole tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

✨ This Crunchy Chicken Casserole is comfort food at its best – creamy, cheesy inside with a perfectly crispy golden topping.

Would you like me to also create a healthier version (lighter sauce + veggie-packed, but still crunchy)?