Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Dish

This crockpot cheesy chicken casserole combines tender potatoes, juicy chicken, and savory kielbasa in a rich, creamy sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience. It's a set-it-and-forget-it meal that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend family gatherings.

This recipe became my go-to winter dish after discovering it during a particularly hectic holiday season. When juggling family visits and end-of-year deadlines, I found myself relying on this casserole at least twice a month for its incredible flavor and minimal hands-on time.

Ingredients

• Red potatoes: Cut into half-inch cubes provide the perfect hearty base and hold their shape well during slow cooking
• Chicken breast cubes: Offer lean protein that becomes tender and flavorful
• Kielbasa slices: Add smoky depth and delicious fat that enhances the entire dish
• White onion: Brings essential aromatic flavor that mellows beautifully during cooking
• Cheddar cheese: Creates that irresistible gooey texture and sharp taste
• Cream of chicken and herbs soup: Forms the foundation of the creamy sauce
• Sour cream: Contributes tangy richness and helps thicken the sauce
• Heavy cream: Adds luxurious silkiness to the final texture
• Italian seasoning: Provides a balanced herb profile without needing multiple bottles
• Garlic powder: Infuses the entire dish with savory notes that complement all ingredients
• Salt and pepper: Bring all the flavors into perfect balance

How To Make Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Casserole

Prepare the base:

Start by lightly greasing your crockpot with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Combine the diced potatoes, chicken breast cubes, sliced kielbasa, diced onion, and 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese in the crockpot. Ensure even distribution of ingredients for consistent cooking.

Create the sauce:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken and herbs soup, sour cream, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. The sauce should have a pourable but thick consistency. Take your time with this step as it creates the creamy foundation of the dish.

Combine components:

Pour the creamy sauce mixture over the ingredients in the crockpot, using a large spoon to gently fold everything together. Make sure all the chicken, potatoes, and kielbasa pieces are coated in the sauce. This ensures even flavor development throughout the long cooking process.

Add final cheese layer:

Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the mixture. This creates a delicious cheesy crust during cooking that adds wonderful texture to the finished dish.

Slow cook to perfection:

Cover the crockpot and set to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 5 hours. The casserole is done when the potatoes are fork-tender and the chicken is cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as the potatoes can become mushy if left too long.

Serve and enjoy:

Once finished, give the casserole a gentle stir to incorporate the melted cheese topping. Serve immediately in bowls or on plates while still hot and bubbling.

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My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the kielbasa. The way it infuses the entire dish with its smoky flavor reminds me of my grandmother's kitchen. She always said a good sausage was the secret to making people come back for seconds, and this casserole proves her right every time. The combination of chicken and kielbasa creates the perfect protein balance.

Make-Ahead Options

This casserole is perfect for meal prep and planning. You can prepare all the ingredients the night before, storing the potato mixture and sauce separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply combine everything in your crockpot and start cooking. For even faster morning prep, you can dice the potatoes ahead of time and store them submerged in cold water in the refrigerator to prevent browning.

Smart Substitutions

While the recipe is perfect as written, it's incredibly adaptable to what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes can replace red potatoes for a slightly different flavor profile and nutritional boost. Turkey kielbasa works beautifully for a lighter option. For the creamy base, cream of mushroom soup can substitute for cream of chicken if that's what you have available. Dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free cheese can work for those with lactose sensitivities, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.

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Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy texture. Steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans add color and nutritional balance. For bread lovers, warm crusty French bread or dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce. When serving for guests, consider setting out additional toppings like chopped green onions, extra cheese, or crispy bacon bits for customization.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor.

→ Can fresh herbs be used instead of Italian seasoning?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano can be used, but adjust quantities to avoid overpowering the dish.

→ What’s the best way to prepare the potatoes?

Dice the red potatoes into uniform 1/2 inch cubes to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.

→ Can I substitute chicken breasts with other cuts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work equally well and provide a juicier texture.

→ How can I avoid overcooking the potatoes?

Monitor the cooking time closely, especially during the last hour, and avoid letting the dish sit on the warming setting for too long.