Imagine coming home after a hectic day and greeting your family (or just yourself!) with a piping hot, bubbling casserole that offers the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie—without any of the hassle of rolling dough or complicated steps. Welcome to the Easy Chicken Cobbler Dinner Casserole! This is truly a hero for busy weeknights: layers of juicy shredded chicken, colorful mixed vegetables, and that famously cheesy Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit topping, all swimming in a rich, savory sauce. It takes almost no effort to put together and is adored by kids and grown-ups alike. Get ready for rave reviews!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Layers: There’s absolutely no need for fancy culinary skills here. If you can whisk and pour, you can make this casserole.
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything bakes up beautifully in one casserole dish, making clean-up a breeze—and who doesn’t love less kitchen mess?
- Insanely Satisfying: That cheesy biscuit topping bakes up golden, fluffy, and oh-so-flavorful, soaking up the creamy chicken and veggie goodness below.
- Family-Friendly & Fuss-Free: Even picky eaters will cheer for this dinner, and it’s packed with protein and veggies—comfort food that just happens to be balanced.
- Perfect for Leftovers: It reheats like a dream, so you can look forward to seconds, or even easy lunches the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a closer look at what goes into this cobbler and why each ingredient is a must:
- Butter: Adds a rich, buttery base that helps crisp the bottom and keep everything moist.
- Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut—tender, full of flavor, and cuts down prep time dramatically.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Grab a bag with your favorite combo (peas, carrots, corn, green beans). No need to thaw!
- Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: The magic ingredient for that signature cheesy, garlicky crust. Comes with its own seasoning packet for extra flavor.
- Whole Milk: Helps create a creamy, lush biscuit batter that rises beautifully as it bakes.
- Chicken Broth: Blends with the soup for a deeply savory sauce that infuses every bite.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Thickens the base, turning the filling into a luscious, velvety layer.
- Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper): Boosts the savory notes throughout, without overpowering the other flavors. Go easy on extra salt since the soup and biscuit mix have plenty.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley, chives, or a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar if you’re feeling fancy!
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.
Variations
Want to make this casserole your own? These swaps and tweaks guarantee it’ll never get boring:
- Protein Swap: Use leftover turkey, rotisserie turkey, or roast ham for a fun twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Double the veggies and use cream of mushroom soup plus veggie broth instead of chicken—still delicious and hearty!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mix for heat lovers.
- Add-ins: Stir in a handful of cooked bacon pieces or chopped sautéed mushrooms.
- Different Biscuit Mix: If cheddar biscuits aren’t your thing, any biscuit or baking mix will work—just toss in a little shredded cheese and extra herbs for flavor.
How to Make Easy Chicken Cobbler Dinner Casserole
Step 1: Get Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a large rectangular (9×13-inch) baking dish—nonstick spray works perfectly here.
Step 2: Build the Layers
Next, melt your butter and pour it evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Layer the shredded chicken over the melted butter, spreading it out in a nice, even layer.
Scatter the frozen mixed veggies right on top of the chicken; don’t bother thawing, they’ll cook up perfectly. Sprinkle with your chosen seasonings—garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper work wonders.
Step 3: Make the Biscuit Topping
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the biscuit mix, the enclosed seasoning packet, and milk until smooth (a few lumps are okay—don’t overmix). Pour this luscious batter carefully over the vegetable and chicken layer. Do not stir—this is important!
Step 4: Add the Creamy Sauce
In the same bowl (no need to wash), whisk together the cream of chicken soup and the chicken broth until combined. Gently pour this mixture over the biscuit layer. Again, do NOT stir. That layered method is what gives you those lovely, separated casserole layers.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish onto the middle rack of your oven and bake, uncovered, for 55-65 minutes. You want the top to be a deep golden brown and the casserole to be bubbling around the edges. Every oven is a little different—start checking at 55 minutes, but you may need the full 65 for that gorgeous crust.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, take the casserole out and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This wait lets the sauce thicken up a bit, making serving so much easier.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Do Not Stir: After you layer each element, resist the urge to mix. The layering is key for a classic “cobbler” texture—biscuits on top, creamy filling on the bottom.
- Pre-Shredded Chicken Shortcut: Rotisserie chicken saves time and delivers big flavor, but any leftover cooked chicken (even grilled or poached) works.
- Golden Top Means Ready: Don’t be afraid of a little extra color on top—the biscuit crust should be deep, golden, and crisp.
- Let It Rest: The casserole will seem quite saucy at first, but as it cools, it sets up to the perfect scoopable consistency.
- Keep Seasoning in Check: Since the biscuit mix and soup have plenty of sodium, taste before adding more salt.
How to Serve
This comforting casserole is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ways to make it an occasion:
Add a Crisp Side
Pair with a simple green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed broccoli to lighten up the meal and add freshness.
Top with Herbs or Cheese
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives, or even a little extra shredded cheddar right before serving for color and flavor.
Pair with a Bright Beverage
A tall glass of iced tea or a tart lemonade goes especially well, balancing the richness.
Tip: If you want to stretch the meal, serve with warm crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that creamy sauce!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better as they hang out together!
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole after baking. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave until hot throughout, or cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until bubbling again. If the top seems dry, a splash of milk or broth brings back that perfect texture.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Chop your favorite combination—just aim for small, evenly sized pieces so they’ll cook through in the same amount of time. Blanching firmer veggies like carrots helps them get tender.
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Will the biscuit topping get soggy if made ahead?
The biscuit topping is best when freshly baked, as it’s crisp and golden. But leftovers still reheat nicely—the crust just absorbs more of the savory sauce, which many people actually love!
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Is it necessary to use Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, or can I use another type?
The Cheddar Bay mix is recommended for its bold garlic-cheddar flavor and ease, but any baking mix will work in a pinch. Just add some shredded cheese and a pinch of garlic powder to the mix if you want a similar flavor.
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Can I make this casserole gluten free?
Yes—swap the biscuit mix for a gluten-free baking mix and double-check that your soup is gluten free. You may need to adjust the liquid ratios since gluten-free mixes can vary.
Final Thoughts
The Easy Chicken Cobbler Dinner Casserole isn’t just a lifesaver on busy nights—it’s pure edible comfort and a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. With minimal prep, tons of flexibility, and lip-smacking flavor in every bite, it’s the perfect recipe to add to your regular meal rotation. Make it soon, and get ready for the happy, satisfied smiles around your table!
PrintEasy Chicken Cobbler Dinner Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Easy Chicken Cobbler Dinner Casserole is a comforting, one-pan meal that’s packed with tender shredded chicken, a medley of vegetables, and topped with a cheesy Cheddar Bay biscuit crust. With minimal prep and simple ingredients like rotisserie chicken and frozen veggies, this satisfying casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick, melted)
- 4 cups shredded chicken (rotisserie recommended)
- 1 (12 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 (11.36 oz) box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (including seasoning packet)
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 (14.5 oz) can chicken broth (about 2 cups)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- Seasoning to taste (garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease the sides of a large 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Add Butter: Melt the butter and pour it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish, ensuring the surface is well coated.
- Layer Chicken: Spread the shredded chicken evenly in a single layer over the melted butter.
- Add Vegetables and Season: Distribute the frozen mixed vegetables evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle with your desired seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Use salt sparingly if needed, as other ingredients contain salt.
- Prepare Biscuit Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix, its seasoning packet, and whole milk until just combined. Carefully pour this mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the baking dish. Do not stir.
- Mix Soup and Broth: In the same bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over all the layers in the baking dish. Do not stir.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered on the center rack of your oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until the top is a deep golden brown. Check for doneness at 55 minutes, as oven times can vary.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken and makes serving easier. Enjoy your warm chicken cobbler casserole!
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor, but any cooked, shredded chicken will work.
- Do not stir after adding the biscuit mix or the soup mixture; layering is key for proper texture.
- Customize with your choice of vegetables or add extra cheese for more richness.
- Letting the casserole rest allows the sauce to thicken and makes it easier to serve.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1170mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 80mg