Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake is the kind of comforting, no-fuss dinner that feels both indulgent and practical. It combines tender baked chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, plenty of sharp cheddar flavor, and a buttery biscuit-style topping inspired by classic Cheddar Bay biscuits. I first tested this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something hearty but simple, and it instantly earned a permanent place in my dinner rotation. Everything comes together in one baking dish, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
What truly sets this dish apart is the balance of textures. The chicken stays juicy beneath a creamy, savory layer, while the topping bakes up golden and slightly crisp on the edges. It is filling without being heavy and feels special enough for guests while still being easy enough for a family meal. Whether you serve it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables, this bake delivers warmth, comfort, and reliable crowd-pleasing results.
Print
Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake: A Comfort-Filled Dinner Everyone Loves
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake is a comforting casserole made with tender chicken, a creamy cheddar filling, and a fluffy biscuit topping inspired by Cheddar Bay biscuits.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup biscuit mix
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the biscuit mix according to package directions.
- Spoon biscuit dough evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Mix melted butter with dried parsley and brush over the top before serving.
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Chicken breasts form the hearty base of this recipe. Boneless, skinless pieces work best because they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
Cheddar cheese provides the signature sharp, savory taste. A medium or sharp cheddar is ideal, as it stands up well to baking and adds depth to the dish.
Cream of chicken soup creates the creamy backbone of the casserole. It keeps the chicken moist while binding all the flavors together into a smooth sauce.
Milk is used to loosen the soup and create a pourable, silky consistency. Whole milk adds richness, but lower-fat options also work well.
Garlic powder enhances the savory profile without overpowering the dish. It blends seamlessly into the sauce and complements the cheddar.
Onion powder adds subtle sweetness and depth, rounding out the overall flavor of the bake.
Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning. Adjust them carefully to balance the richness of the cheese and soup.
Bisquick-style baking mix forms the base of the biscuit topping. It bakes up light and tender while absorbing buttery flavor.
Butter adds richness to the topping and helps create a golden, crisp finish.
Fresh parsley, while optional, adds a touch of freshness and color that brightens the final presentation.
Directions
Begin by preheating your oven to 190°C. Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in the dish, making sure they are not overlapping too much. Season the chicken lightly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese generously across the top, covering the surface of the sauce.
In a separate bowl, combine the baking mix with milk according to package-style proportions to form a thick batter. Spoon the batter carefully over the chicken and cheese layer. It does not need to fully cover the surface; small gaps allow steam to escape and help the topping bake evenly.
Melt the butter and drizzle it over the biscuit topping. Transfer the dish to the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden brown. Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes before serving, then garnish with parsley if desired.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately four generous servings.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 40 to 45 minutes. The total time from start to finish is roughly one hour, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
Storage/reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place a portion in the oven at 175°C until warmed through, or microwave gently in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken.
Variations and Customizations
This Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to tailor to different tastes and dietary needs. For a richer flavor, try mixing a small amount of cream cheese into the soup mixture. It adds extra creaminess and a subtle tang that pairs well with cheddar.
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the sauce. These spices add warmth without overwhelming the dish. For a more herb-forward version, dried thyme or Italian seasoning can be stirred into the biscuit topping.
Vegetable additions are another excellent option. Steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms can be layered over the chicken before adding the sauce. This not only boosts nutrition but also makes the dish more colorful and filling.
For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheese and low-fat soup. While the bake will be slightly less rich, it still maintains its comforting character. Gluten-free baking mix can also be substituted to accommodate dietary restrictions, with very similar results.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Perfectly Cooked Chicken
Cut thicker chicken breasts in half horizontally to ensure even cooking and a tender result.
Extra Golden Topping
For a deeper golden color, brush a little extra melted butter over the topping halfway through baking.
Balanced Flavor
Taste the sauce before assembling and adjust seasoning as needed. Cheddar varies in saltiness.
Make It Ahead
Assemble the dish up to the topping stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless thighs work well and add extra juiciness.
Can this dish be frozen?
It is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen after baking and cooled completely.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
A green salad or roasted vegetables complement the richness nicely.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free baking mix and ensure the soup is gluten-free.
How do I know the chicken is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 74°C.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely, extra cheddar or a blend of cheeses works well.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is mild, creamy, and generally very kid-friendly.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble it ahead and bake just before serving.
What milk works best?
Whole milk provides the richest texture, but semi-skimmed also works.
How do I prevent a soggy topping?
Avoid overmixing the batter and do not cover the dish while baking.
Conclusion
Cheddar Bay Chicken Bake is a satisfying, comforting meal that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Its creamy interior, cheesy goodness, and biscuit-style topping make it a dependable favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions. With simple ingredients and flexible options, it is a recipe you will return to again and again.
Hungry for more? Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!