Name: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 8 ounces pasta, cooked; 1 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided); ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (divided)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 52 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a comforting, rich, and utterly satisfying dish, look no further than this Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Casserole Recipe. Imagine tender, shredded chicken mingling with sun-dried tomatoes and a luscious, cheesy cream sauce, all baked together to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s a family-friendly meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, combining simple ingredients into a dish packed with flavor and texture that everyone will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole checks all the boxes for deliciousness and ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

square image The image shows raw chicken pieces placed on a white plate at the bottom left. Above it to the left is a black bowl filled with uncooked yellow penne pasta. Near the top center, there is a wooden bowl with fresh green spinach leaves. To the right, a white bowl contains shredded white cheese. Centered near the top right is a white bowl with cream, and to its left below, a clear glass measuring cup holds light yellow broth. A jar with a red lid of sun-dried tomatoes is placed to the right of the broth. Several small white bowls and dishes with yellow melted butter, light orange seasoning, and grated cheese are scattered around, along with two garlic cloves and one light brown onion on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient. Every component has a role that elevates the dish, from the tender chicken that brings protein and substance, to the vibrant sun-dried tomatoes that inject bursts of tangy sweetness, and the creamy cheeses that pull everything together with luscious texture and flavor.

Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded): Use rotisserie chicken for a quick, flavorful shortcut or freshly cooked chicken for a homemade touch.
Pasta (8 ounces, cooked): Choose your favorite short pasta like penne or rotini to capture the creamy sauce beautifully.
Sun-dried tomatoes (1 cup, chopped): These add a bright and chewy punch that balances the creaminess perfectly.
Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts smoothly to create the irresistible, gooey cheese layer.
Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that deepens each bite.
Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): The foundation for the creamy sauce, bringing savory richness.
Sour cream (1 cup): Gives tang and silkiness, enhancing the texture and flavor complexity.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Aromatic and flavorful, a must-have for layering savory depth.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that brightens and ties all the flavors together.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick that rounds out the savory profile.

How to Make Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole does not stick, making cleanup a breeze and helping the cheese bake into a golden, bubbly topping.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, bring together the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mix forms the hearty base of your casserole with every bite promising a balance of creaminess, tang, and savory notes.

Step 3: Add Half of the Cheese

Gently fold in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the mixture. This step ensures the cheese is evenly distributed, coating every piece with creamy, cheesy goodness right from the first forkful to the last.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking and bubbling throughout the casserole.

Step 5: Top with Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan over the surface. This topping will melt and golden beautifully, giving you that inviting, crusty cheese layer everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly with the cheese topping lightly browned. The aroma filling your kitchen will tell you it’s time to dig in.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to stand for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the dish set a bit, making it easier to serve and intensifying the flavors.

How to Serve Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Casserole Recipe

square image A close-up of a black baking tray filled with creamy baked pasta topped with melted cheese and herbs, lifted by a woman's hand holding a slotted spatula. The pasta is elbow-shaped, covered with gooey melted cheese stretching out in smooth strings, showing a mix of white and golden yellow color. Small green herbs and black olives are scattered across the surface, adding contrast and texture. The background is a white marbled texture, giving a clean and bright look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped basil or parsley bring a refreshing, herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, creamy base. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan adds a salty punch and an appealing finish.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans that offer fresh crunch and color on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with a basil leaf. Alternatively, layer it in a trifle dish for a rustic, shareable centerpiece that invites everyone to dig in family-style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The casserole holds its flavor beautifully and is just as comforting the next day.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well. Prepare it through the baking step, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep it moist. Warm for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave servings for a quick, satisfying meal.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Fresh tomatoes will add moisture and freshness but lack the concentrated sweetness and chewy texture of sun-dried tomatoes, which really elevate the casserole’s flavor. If you want to substitute, drain and roast fresh tomatoes to mimic that richness.

What type of pasta works best in this casserole?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or even shells are ideal because they hold the creamy sauce well. Avoid long thin noodles which might get lost in the mix.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The traditional recipe includes cream of chicken soup and pasta that contain gluten. However, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup alternative.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or even zucchini are great additions that not only boost nutrition but complement the flavors and textures of the casserole beautifully.

How spicy is this dish?

This casserole has a mild, comforting flavor profile with a hint of savory herbs and garlic. It is not spicy, making it perfect for all palates including kids or those sensitive to heat.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Casserole Recipe. Its combination of simple ingredients, creamy textures, and robust flavors makes it a go-to dish for so many occasions. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids, entertaining friends, or just craving something cozy, this casserole is a warm, satisfying choice that’s sure to become one of your favorites too. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!