If you’re craving a comforting dish that bursts with smoky, tangy, and hearty flavors, the Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This casserole brings together tender shredded chicken smothered in vibrant barbecue sauce, mingled with sweet corn, crisp green peppers, and black beans for that added protein punch. Topped with sharp cheddar cheese and French fried onions for crunch, this dish is a perfect weeknight dinner that feels special but comes together quickly and easily. It’s the kind of recipe that warms your soul and keeps everyone coming back for seconds – trust me, once you try this Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe, it’ll be a staple on your menu!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are all you need to create this delightful casserole. Each one plays a crucial role: the shredded chicken brings protein and texture, black beans and corn add a sweet, earthy depth, while green pepper introduces a subtle crunch and freshness. The barbecue sauce ties everything together with that iconic tangy, smoky flavor, and the cheese and French fried onions give luscious richness and a satisfying crisp topping.
- 4 cups chicken, shredded: Use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time and boost flavor.
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and a hearty, nutritious boost.
- 1 cup sweet kernel corn, canned or frozen: Sweetness balances the tang of the BBQ sauce perfectly.
- 1/2 green pepper, finely diced: Provides a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite style—smoky, spicy, or sweet to match your taste buds.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts beautifully, bringing richness and a slight bite.
- 1/2 cup French fried onions: Sprinkled on top for that irresistible crispy topping.
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped: Adds a burst of freshness and aroma in every bite.
How to Make Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by mixing the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, finely diced green pepper, and barbecue sauce in a large bowl until everything is evenly coated with that luscious BBQ flavor. This mixture is the heart of your casserole, combining smoky, sweet, and fresh elements that will meld together beautifully as it bakes.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Next, pour the chicken mixture into a large casserole dish and spread it out evenly. This ensures every bite has a perfect balance of ingredients. At this point, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese generously over the top. The cheese will melt down, binding the casserole and adding a rich, creamy layer.
Step 3: Add the Final Crunch
Before baking, sprinkle the French fried onions on top for an extra layer of crunch and golden color. These onions create a tantalizing contrast to the tender chicken and gooey cheese beneath.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the onions are crisp. As it bakes, the flavors deepen and mingle, turning simple ingredients into a memorable meal.
How to Serve Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro right before serving brightens the dish with a pop of color and fresh herb taste. You could even add a dollop of sour cream or a few sliced jalapeños for a creamy and spicy kick, giving your casserole a personal twist.
Side Dishes
Pairing this casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables helps balance the richness, while simple corn bread or warm tortillas complement the barbecue flavors perfectly. Each side enhances the dish by adding different textures and flavor contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party or family dinner, serve the casserole in individual mini cocottes or ramekins topped with fresh cilantro and a wedge of lime. Alternatively, spoon the casserole onto a bed of fluffy rice or mashed potatoes, letting the barbecue sauce soak into every bite and turn it into a full-on comfort feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover casserole into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop more, making the next-day meal just as delicious. Just give it a quick reheat and you’re good to go.
Freezing
This Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it an excellent make-ahead meal to save for busy days or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave leftovers covered for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway. Adding a little sprinkle of fresh cheese on top before reheating keeps it deliciously gooey.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for the Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe because it’s already cooked, tender, and flavorful, shortening your prep time.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe is not spicy but packed with smoky barbecue flavor. You can easily add heat by choosing a spicy BBQ sauce or adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
Can I make this vegetarian?
You can substitute the shredded chicken with jackfruit or cooked shredded tofu to replicate the texture and soak up the BBQ sauce, making it a delicious vegetarian option.
What kind of barbecue sauce is best?
It depends on your taste preference! Sweet, smoky, or tangy BBQ sauces all work well, but using a sauce you love eating by itself will ensure the casserole shines.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this casserole scales up beautifully! Just double all ingredients and use a larger casserole dish to make enough to serve a hungry crowd or have plenty of leftovers.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dish that hits all the right notes of flavor and comfort, the Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe is a winner. It’s quick, versatile, and packed with irresistible tastes that make every bite satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite family dinner or potluck star!
Print
Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Shredded BBQ Chicken Casserole combining tender shredded chicken with black beans, sweet corn, and tangy barbecue sauce, topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese and crispy french fried onions for a satisfying comfort meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken, shredded
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup sweet kernel corn, canned or frozen
- 1/2 green pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Topping
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup french fried onions
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mix the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, finely diced green pepper, and barbecue sauce until all components are well incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the combined mixture into a large casserole dish, spreading evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Add Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture, followed by the french fried onions to add a crunchy texture.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a fresh flavor, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the barbecue sauce with your favorite flavor or homemade BBQ sauce for a personalized taste.
- For added heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.
- Use fresh or frozen corn if canned corn is unavailable; just make sure to thaw if frozen.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
