Cozy Autumn Chicken Casserole: A Comfort Food with a Twist

Autumn days have a way of making us crave hearty, warming dishes that fill the house with inviting aromas. This Easy Fall Chicken Casserole does just that, but with a surprising hint of sweetness from roasted apples and a sprinkle of fresh thyme that elevates the simple ingredients. It’s a cozy dish you can assemble quickly, perfect for busy weeknights when comfort is king.

You’ll love how the golden crust crisps up on top while the tender chicken and velvety sauce meld into one comforting bite. The best part? It smells like fall in every forkful—think cinnamon-spiced air mingling with roasted chicken and caramelized onions. This casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a seasonal hug served straight from the oven.

Autumn Chicken Casserole

This chicken casserole combines tender cooked chicken with roasted apples, caramelized onions, and a fragrant blend of thyme and cinnamon. A crispy golden crust tops the dish, creating a comforting and aromatic meal with a velvety sauce throughout, showcasing warm, seasonal flavors.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort Food

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed pre-cooked and cooled
• 2 apples firm apples such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, sliced
• 1 large onion thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme if available
• 1 cup heavy cream or milk to create a velvety sauce
• 1 cup grated cheese such as Parmesan or Gruyère, for topping
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Baking dish or casserole dish
• Skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon or spatula
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté sliced onions until they become translucent and begin to caramelize, about 10 minutes. The onions should smell sweet and turn a light golden brown.
2. Add sliced apples to the skillet with onions, sprinkle with cinnamon, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The apples will soften slightly, releasing a warm aroma of cinnamon and caramelized fruit.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with the caramelized apple and onion mixture. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper, then stir gently to distribute flavors evenly.
4. Pour the mixture into your baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Pour the heavy cream or milk over the top to create a creamy base for the casserole.
5. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, which will melt and turn golden in the oven, adding a crispy, cheesy crust.
6. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown, and the smell is warm and inviting.
7. Remove the casserole from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, and then serve hot. The top should be crispy and golden, with tender chicken, melting cheese, and fragrant roasted apples inside.

Notes

You can substitute fresh thyme with dried if needed. For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle a bit of nutmeg with the cinnamon.

As the leaves fall and temperatures dip, this casserole will become your go-to for effortless, flavorful dinners. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. Plus, it’s adaptable—swap in sweet potatoes or add a handful of walnuts for an extra crunch.

Nothing beats a dish that’s both simple to make and full of seasonal charm. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want comfort without the fuss. Tucking into this warm casserole feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy sweater—ah, the joys of fall cooking.