This casserole is simple, nostalgic, and always crowd-pleasing. If you grew up in the South, you’ve probably had some version of it at a family gathering or holiday supper. If you didn’t, consider this your official invitation.

The Classic Recipe

The base of the casserole is simple: shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Some versions add slivered almonds for crunch, bacon for smoky saltiness, or a splash of hot sauce for a little depth.

The topping is almost always the same: a sleeve of buttery crackers crushed and mixed with melted butter, sprinkled over the top until golden and crisp.

Bake it until it bubbles, then let it rest so it sets up. Comfort food at its easiest.

How I Make It My Own

I sometimes can’t make things exactly as written. I will put a little Junky Jorja twist on it.

• I like rotisserie chicken because it has better flavor and saves time.
• I use sharp cheddar, not mild, because it gives more richness without adding extra ingredients.
• And I always bake it in a vintage casserole dish. Somehow that just makes everything taste better.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds (optional but traditional)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional but delicious)
• 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce, optional

For the topping:

• 1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz), crushed
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, green onions, almonds, bacon, and hot sauce if using.
3. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, stir together the crushed buttery crackers and the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
6. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely.

Tips

• Rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
• Sharp cheddar gives more flavor.
• Add frozen peas or cooked mushrooms if you want a little more texture.
• Preassemble up to a day ahead; add cracker topping right before baking.