Name: Creamy Chicken Olivia Casserole for Cozy Family Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 4 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded (use a mix of white and dark meat); 1 cup sour cream (can swap for Greek yogurt); 1 can cream of chicken soup (substitute with cream of mushroom for different taste); 1/2 cup chopped black olives (or replace with green olives if desired); 1/4 cup green chilies (adjust based on spice preference); 1/4 cup chopped green onions (chives can be used instead); 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack if desired); 4 cups cooked rice (alternatives include pasta or quinoa); to taste salt; to taste pepper

As I was flipping through my collection of family recipes, a delightful memory surfaced—a warm kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of Chicken Olivia casserole, a dish my loved ones always cherished. This creamy chicken casserole uses rotisserie chicken, transforming a few simple ingredients into a heartwarming dinner that’s perfect for any hectic weeknight. Not only is this recipe a true crowd-pleaser, but it also comes together in no time, allowing you to savor the process rather than rush through it. Each bite offers both creamy comfort and a delightful mix of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Curious how you can bring this nostalgic dish to life in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!

Why is Chicken Olivia a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its Best: You only need a few ingredients, making this dish easy for anyone, from busy parents to novice cooks.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The blend of rotisserie chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping creates a dish that your whole family will love, even the picky eaters!

Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with ingredients like Bang Bang Chicken for a twist, or mix in some frozen veggies for added nutrition.

Quick Dinner Solution: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for those chaotic weeknights when you want a comforting meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.

Nostalgic Comfort: This casserole is reminiscent of family gatherings, evoking warm memories with every bite, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation.

Chicken Olivia Ingredients

For the Casserole Base
• Rotisserie Chicken – A convenient main protein; use a mix of white and dark meat for added flavor.
• Sour Cream – Provides creaminess and a tangy kick; Greek yogurt can be swapped for a lighter option.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Rich and hearty base; substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste.
• Chopped Black Olives – Adds a briny touch; omit or replace with green olives if desired.
• Green Chilies – Delivers a mild heat; adjust the amount based on your spice preference, or exclude for a milder flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions – Freshness in every bite; chives can be used instead for a similar flavor.

For the Topping
• Grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Rich flavor and a bubbly crust; feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for variety.

For Serving
• Cooked Rice – A comforting base to serve; pasta or quinoa are great alternatives if you’re looking for something different.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to your taste; essential in enhancing the flavors of your Chicken Olivia casserole.

This Chicken Olivia recipe delivers a warming hug in a bowl, perfect for sharing with loved ones around the dinner table.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Olivia

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your delicious Chicken Olivia casserole by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature. While the oven heats up, gather your ingredients and a 9×13-inch baking pan, preparing to create a warm and comforting meal.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Carefully shred your rotisserie chicken, making sure to remove any skin and bones. Spread the tender chicken evenly in the bottom of the 9×13-inch baking pan. This hearty base will soak up the creamy sauce and provide a savory foundation for your Chicken Olivia casserole, making each bite satisfying.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped black olives, green chilies, and chopped green onions. Use a spatula to stir the mixture until smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated. This creamy sauce serves as the heart of your Chicken Olivia, bursting with flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the shredded chicken in the baking pan. Use a spatula to gently spread the sauce, ensuring every piece of chicken is well coated. This step is crucial, as it guarantees that every bite of Chicken Olivia is infused with the rich, creamy flavors.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping
Generously sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, covering it completely. The cheese will melt and create a bubbly crust as it bakes, adding a wonderful texture to your Chicken Olivia. If you prefer, feel free to mix in different cheeses for a personalized touch.

Step 6: Bake with Foil
Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil to create a steaming environment for the Chicken Olivia casserole. Bake in your preheated oven for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the dish to heat thoroughly. The foil prevents the top from browning too early, ensuring a creamy interior.

Step 7: Finish Baking Uncovered
After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking the casserole for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and bubble, transforming into a golden, delicious topping. Keep an eye on it during this stage to avoid over-browning.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Chicken Olivia casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it hot over a bed of cooked rice, pasta, or quinoa, depending on your preference. This comforting dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making every gathering more special.

What to Serve with Creamy Chicken Olivia Casserole?

Elevate your cozy family dinner with perfect pairings that beautifully complement the creamy bliss of this delightful casserole.

Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty loaf spread with garlic butter adds a satisfying crunch and rich flavor that balances the creamy chicken.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with tangy dressing and crunchy croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Steamed Vegetables: Brightly colored steamed broccoli or green beans provide freshness and texture, enhancing the meal’s nutritional aspect.
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, this protein-packed side adds a lovely nutty flavor, allowing the casserole to shine without feeling heavy.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweet, caramelized exterior of roasted sweet potatoes brings a delightful hint of sweetness while pairing well with the savory flavors.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, comforting treat with its crunchy topping and sweet-tart apples wonderfully rounds off the meal.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A cool drink helps cleanse the palate between bites, making your chicken casserole experience even more enjoyable.
Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side adds a refreshing element that contrasts the creaminess of the casserole, keeping the flavors bright.
Cheesy Biscuit Sliders: Mini sliders offer a fun way to enjoy leftovers while incorporating a cheesy twist that complements the casserole perfectly.
Fruit Salad: A light, colorful combination of seasonal fruits brings freshness, contrasting with the warm casserole’s comforting textures.

Make Ahead Options

These Chicken Olivia casseroles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling all the ingredients and covering it tightly with foil before refrigerating. This allows the flavors to meld together for an even tastier experience. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes (add an extra 10-15 minutes if baking straight from the fridge). To maintain quality, ensure it’s well-covered to create a steamy environment. This way, your Chicken Olivia will come out just as creamy and delicious, saving you time while delighting your family with a warm, comforting meal!

Expert Tips for Chicken Olivia

Shred Chicken Well: Ensure your rotisserie chicken is shredded into small pieces for even mixing with the creamy sauce, eliminating clumps and enhancing flavor distribution.
Watch Baking Closely: Keep an eye on the casserole after removing the foil, as the cheese can brown quickly. Aim for a beautifully bubbly and golden top without burning.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap in ingredients like Greek yogurt for sour cream or cream of mushroom soup for variation. Adjusting substitutions can keep Chicken Olivia exciting!
Balance the Flavors: Season with salt and pepper to taste, but don’t forget to factor in the brininess of olives and the creaminess of other ingredients to avoid overpowering the dish.
Make It Ahead: If you’re pressed for time, prepare Chicken Olivia a day in advance. Simply refrigerate and bake before serving, perfect for handling busy schedules!

Storage Tips for Chicken Olivia

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring that the casserole remains fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Olivia in a covered container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This method helps retain the creamy texture of the casserole.

Make-Ahead: Prepare Chicken Olivia a day prior, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it right before serving for a quick, comforting dinner option.

Chicken Olivia Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Olivia casserole—swapping ingredients adds your personal touch while keeping the comforting essence intact.

Healthy Twist: Substitute Greek Yogurt for sour cream to lighten up the dish without losing creaminess. It brings a delightful tang!
Different Soups: Use Cream of Mushroom Soup instead of cream of chicken for an earthy flavor that’s equally delicious. This variation caters to those who prefer a more robust taste.
Veggie Boost: Add Frozen Mixed Vegetables for extra nutrition. Simply fold them into the creamy mixture to incorporate wholesome goodness—perfect for sneaking in some greens!
Cheese Variety: Swap Sharp Cheddar with Pepper Jack for a spicy kick! A little heat can elevate the whole meal, making it feel like a gourmet dish.
Flavorful Olives: Replace Black Olives with Green Olives for a different briny flavor. Each type brings its unique zing that complements the creamy base beautifully!
Change the Base: Try serving the casserole over Tortilla Chips instead of rice for a fun nacho-style dish—the crispy texture is unforgettable!
Dairy-Free Option: Use Cashew Cream to replace dairy ingredients, making this a vegan-friendly dish—deliciously creamy while keeping it guilt-free!
Spicy Upgrade: Incorporate Sriracha into the creamy mixture to add a dash of heat. Adjust the amount to your spice tolerance for an exciting kick!

With these variations, your Chicken Olivia casserole can transform into countless delicious versions, delighting your family night after night! And if you want to explore more chicken dishes, try my comforting Butter Chicken or the bold flavors of delightful Orange Chicken. Happy cooking!

Chicken Olivia Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best rotisserie chicken for my casserole?
Absolutely! When selecting a rotisserie chicken, look for one that has a golden-brown skin and is free from dark spots or excessive grease. It’s best to choose a chicken that feels warm to the touch and appears juicy. You can go for a mix of white and dark meat to enhance flavor, tailoring it to your family’s preferences.

How should I store leftover Chicken Olivia?
Store your leftover Chicken Olivia casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its creamy texture, ensure the container is sealed properly. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

Can Chicken Olivia be frozen for later use?
Certainly! To freeze Chicken Olivia, place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring all air is removed. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For easy reheating, thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking to retain the rich, creamy flavors.

What should I do if my casserole is too dry after baking?
If you find your Chicken Olivia casserole has turned out dry, don’t worry! You can add a bit of chicken broth or extra sour cream to the casserole before reheating, stirring gently to incorporate. This will help restore the moisture and create the creamy texture you desire.

Is Chicken Olivia suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you’re catering to dietary preferences or restrictions, consider using gluten-free cream of chicken soup or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lower-fat alternative. Be mindful of any allergies related to ingredients like olives or dairy, and feel free to customize with suitable substitutes that fit your loved ones’ needs.

How can I make Chicken Olivia more nutritious?
To boost the nutritional content of your Chicken Olivia casserole, consider adding in some frozen mixed vegetables, such as peas and carrots or spinach. Simply mix them into the cream sauce before pouring it over the chicken. It’ll not only enhance the flavor but also provide extra vitamins and minerals!