This Savory Herb Leftover Chicken Casserole is a fantastic way to give your leftover chicken a new lease on life. Infused with aromatic herbs and topped with a satisfyingly crunchy breadcrumb layer, it's a quick and hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Cooked chicken is the star here, adding protein and heartiness. Frozen peas and carrots bring color and a touch of sweetness, while onion and garlic add depth and aroma. A mix of chicken broth and sour cream creates a creamy, savory base that binds everything together. Shredded cheddar cheese gives that gooey, cheesy goodness on top. Panko breadcrumbs create a crispy, golden topping. Finally, olive oil, dried thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt season the dish perfectly.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil and lemon juice. For a heartier meal, serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a warm crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it's ready when you are. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they're soft and fragrant — this usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet, stirring occasionally until they're thawed. This should only take a couple of minutes. Once thawed, mix in the shredded chicken, chicken broth, and sour cream. Stir until everything is well combined.
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt, and give it another good stir to ensure the herbs and spices are evenly distributed. Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out to form an even layer.
Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chicken mixture. In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of olive oil, then spread this crumbly goodness over the cheese layer.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving — just enough so you don't burn your tongue!