Creamy Swiss Chicken Casserole

 

Creamy Swiss Chicken Casserole

The Ultimate Comfort Food for Family Dinners

If you’re looking for a warm, creamy, and filling dinner that brings together tender chicken, melty Swiss cheese, wholesome broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice in one comforting bite, then this Swiss Chicken Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in a dish—easy to prepare, rich in flavor, and perfect for both weeknight family dinners and weekend gatherings.

This casserole is a classic American comfort dish with a twist of Swiss cheese that adds a mild nuttiness and a creamy depth of flavor. The combination of juicy chicken breasts, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, fluffy rice, and buttery breadcrumbs makes every spoonful irresistibly good.

Why You’ll Love This Swiss Chicken Casserole

  • One-Dish Meal: It combines protein, carbs, and veggies in a single baking dish.
  • Creamy & Flavorful: Thanks to the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth base.
  • Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters enjoy the mild, cheesy flavor.
  • Customizable: You can swap ingredients, add extra veggies, or change up the cheese.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the list of everything you’ll need to make this Creamy Swiss Chicken Casserole:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – the star of the dish, juicy and tender.
  • 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded – adds a mild nutty flavor and creamy texture.
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – gives the casserole its creamy base.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream – for extra tang and richness.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth – to thin out the sauce and keep it moist.
  • 1 cup broccoli florets – adds color, texture, and nutrients.
  • 1 cup cooked rice – forms the hearty base of the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for flavor depth.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances the savory taste.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – adjust depending on preference.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – for a golden, crunchy topping.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted – binds the breadcrumbs together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine:

  • cream of mushroom soup
  • sour cream
  • chicken broth
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder
  • salt and pepper

Stir well until everything is smooth and creamy. This mixture will be poured over the chicken and rice, creating the delicious base of the casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Base

Spread the cooked rice evenly on the bottom of the greased baking dish. The rice absorbs all the creamy sauce while baking, making it flavorful and fluffy.

Step 4: Add the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on top of the rice. Make sure they’re spread evenly so each piece cooks perfectly.

Step 5: Pour the Sauce

Pour the prepared creamy mixture over the chicken, covering everything well. This ensures the chicken stays moist while baking.

Step 6: Add the Veggies and Cheese

Sprinkle the broccoli florets evenly across the casserole. Then, top with the shredded Swiss cheese for that melty, gooey layer everyone loves.

Step 7: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until the crumbs are well coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the casserole. The breadcrumb topping will bake into a crispy golden crust.

Step 8: Bake

  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C) and the top is golden brown.

Cooking Tips & Variations

 

  • Cheese Swap: If you don’t have Swiss cheese, try mozzarella, provolone, or Gruyère for a similar texture and flavor.
  • Rice Options: Use white, brown, or even wild rice. Leftover rice works great for this recipe.
  • Veggie Add-ins: Add mushrooms, peas, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
  • Protein Alternatives: You can use turkey breast or even rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
  • Gluten-Free: Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones.

What to Serve with Swiss Chicken Casserole

 

This casserole is already a full meal on its own, but you can pair it with:

  • A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
  • Garlic bread or dinner rolls.
  • Roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots or green beans.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

 

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg

Final Thoughts

 

This Swiss Chicken Casserole is the definition of comfort food made easy. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, cheesy goodness, and a crunchy topping, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, cooking for your loved ones, or hosting friends, this dish will always impress.

Try it once, and it might just earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!

 

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