After the holiday feast is over and the fridge is filled with containers of leftovers, it’s time to turn those extra ingredients into something warm, comforting, and new. This Cranberry Chicken Casserole is the perfect Holiday Chicken Bake that transforms leftover cranberry sauce into a sweet, savory masterpiece. Bursting with flavor, this Cranberry Chicken Recipe blends tangy BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and the brightness of cranberries for a dish that’s easy, delicious, and cleanup-friendly. Whether from Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, this Cranberry Chicken Baked dish promises cozy comfort, simple prep, and unforgettable taste—plus expert tips to make every bite shine.
A Cozy Post-Holiday Tradition – How This Cranberry Chicken Casserole Began
It all started on a chilly December evening when the kitchen counters were still lined with the remains of a festive feast—roast chicken, spoonfuls of stuffing, and that stubborn container of leftover cranberry sauce that no one quite knew what to do with. That’s when inspiration struck. I combined tangy cranberry sauce with smoky BBQ flavors, poured it over shredded chicken, added some cheese, and slid the dish into the oven. The aroma of sweet and savory goodness soon filled the air. That first Leftover Cranberry BBQ Chicken Casserole quickly became a family favorite, loved for its unexpected flavor twist and comforting, homestyle appeal.
There’s something magical about repurposing leftovers into something brand new—a sort of culinary renewal that brings both comfort and creativity. Each year, as the holidays wind down and the house quiets, this casserole brings warmth back to the table. The bubbling cheese, the ruby hue from the cranberries, and the smoky BBQ aroma create a moment that feels like the holidays all over again, without the stress or the mess.
What makes this Holiday Chicken Bake so irresistible is its beautiful simplicity. There’s minimal prep, barely any cleanup, and a massive flavor payoff. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you’re craving something hearty but quick. The balance of tangy cranberry sweetness, rich BBQ sauce, and juicy chicken creates that irresistible sweet-and-savory harmony that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
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Leftover Cranberry BBQ Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Description
This casserole transforms leftover cranberry sauce and cooked chicken into a warm, flavorful bake that’s perfect for using up holiday extras. With minimal prep and a sweet-savory balance, it’s an easy comfort food for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, stir together chicken, cranberry sauce, and BBQ sauce until well coated.
3. Fold in sour cream, cooked rice or stuffing, chopped onion, herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread half of the mixture into the prepared dish and sprinkle with half of the cheese.
5. Top with the remaining chicken mixture, then sprinkle the rest of the cheese evenly.
6. If using, combine melted butter with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs and sprinkle over the top.
7. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until cheese is bubbling and topping is golden. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: casserole
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 80
Keywords: cranberry chicken casserole, holiday chicken bake, cranberry chicken recipe, leftover casserole, bbq chicken casserole, easy holiday bake, thanksgiving leftovers
This Cranberry Chicken Recipe also happens to be incredibly adaptable—add leftover turkey instead of chicken, mix in your favorite cheeses, or throw in vegetables like green beans or sweet potatoes for color and nutrition. Whether baked fresh after the holidays or pulled from the freezer for a midwinter dinner, this Holiday Chicken Bake delivers comfort, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite. It’s more than just a Cranberry Chicken Recipe—it’s an easy, heartwarming tradition that transforms holiday leftovers into a meal worth remembering.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect Cranberry Chicken Casserole
Before the oven even warms up, gather your ingredients—most of which are probably already in your fridge from the holiday spread. The beauty of this Leftover Cranberry BBQ Chicken Casserole lies in its simplicity: pantry staples combine with fresh ingredients to create something that tastes brand new. Use the table below for a quick and clear reference, along with easy substitution ideas so you can make it work with what you have on hand.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) | 3 cups | Use turkey for a post-Thanksgiving twist |
| Leftover cranberry sauce | 1 cup | Any style – homemade or canned works fine |
| BBQ sauce | ½ cup | Choose smoky, spicy, or sweet depending on taste |
| Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack) | 1½ cups | Try pepper jack for a zesty kick |
| Cooked rice or stuffing | 2 cups | Mashed potatoes or cooked grains also work |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | Substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option |
| Chopped onion | ½ cup | Use green onions or shallots if preferred |
| Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary) | 2 tbsp | Dried herbs work too—start with 1 tsp each |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust based on the saltiness of BBQ and cranberry sauces |
| Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs | ½ cup | Optional topping for added crunch |
| Butter (melted) | 2 tbsp | Mix with topping for golden, crisp results |
This balanced blend offers both creamy and tangy dimensions while keeping that comforting baked casserole texture. The tangy cranberry sauce infuses sweetness; BBQ brings smokiness; and the cheese binds everything together. Whether using leftover roasted chicken or turkey, this Cranberry Chicken Casserole turns seasonal extras into a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to love year-round.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide for Your Holiday Chicken Bake
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or any oven-safe casserole pan. This ensures your Cranberry Chicken Baked mixture won’t stick and that the edges crisp beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Flavor Base
In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cranberry sauce, and BBQ sauce. Stir until the chicken is well-coated and the mixture turns a rich, deep red. This blend is the heart of your Cranberry Chicken Recipe—a marriage of sweet and smoky you’ll want to taste in every bite.
Step 3: Add Creaminess and Texture
Gently fold in sour cream and cooked rice or stuffing. Then sprinkle in the chopped onions, herbs, salt, and pepper. The goal here is balance: the sour cream smooths the flavors, while the herbs give freshness and the grains add body.
Step 4: Layer It Up
Spoon the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of your cheese over the first layer, then spread the rest of the chicken mixture on top, followed by the remaining cheese. This double-cheese layering ensures your Holiday Chicken Bake is satisfying from top to bottom.
Step 5: Optional Crunchy Topping
If you love a crispy top, mix melted butter with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. Sprinkle it over the casserole before baking for that perfect golden crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the topping turns golden-brown. The house will fill with that unmistakable aroma—sweet cranberries, savory chicken, and smoky BBQ mingling together in a scent that feels like the holidays all over again.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Allow your Cranberry Chicken Baked casserole to rest for about 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle and the flavors meld beautifully. Slice into squares, serve warm, and enjoy the comforting balance of creamy, tangy, and savory goodness in every forkful.
Smart Tips for the Best Cranberry Chicken Casserole Every Time
- Keep It Juicy and Tender: Mix your meat thoroughly with the sauces to lock in moisture. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of broth or sour cream.
- Balance Sweet and Savory: Adjust the cranberry sauce and BBQ ratio for the ideal flavor harmony in your Cranberry Sauce Chicken Recipe.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Layers of cheese ensure creaminess and deepen the casserole’s flavor.
- Add Crunch: A buttery cracker or breadcrumb topping adds levity and texture.
- Reheat Smartly: In the oven at 350°F covered with foil for moisture, or microwave with a damp towel for tender results.
- Store It Right: Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Make It Healthier: Use Greek yogurt, add vegetables, or substitute quinoa for rice to boost nutrition.
Creative Variations and Holiday Serving Suggestions
- BBQ Cranberry Chicken Sliders: Add casserole filling to mini buns, top with cheese, and enjoy warm handheld bites of Holiday Chicken goodness.
- Mini Casseroles: Portion into ramekins or muffin tins for easy single servings—perfect for guests or portion control.
- Add a Veggie Boost: Include spinach, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes for added nutrients and color.
- Freezer-Friendly Prep: Assemble in advance, freeze unbaked, and thaw before baking when needed.
- Flavor Twists: Make it Tex-Mex with chipotle sauce and black beans, or Italian-inspired with mozzarella and balsamic glaze.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve with green beans, roasted carrots, or a crisp salad with citrus dressing to balance the richness.
- Festive Buffet Style: Keep warm in a slow cooker and let guests add their own toppings for fun customization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Cranberry Chicken Casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble everything up to baking, then refrigerate for up to a day. When ready, bring it to room temperature before baking. This deepens flavors and simplifies meal prep for your Holiday Chicken Bake.
What type of cranberry sauce works best?
Whole-berry gives texture and tartness; jellied is smoother and sweeter. Either works beautifully depending on your Cranberry Chicken Recipe flavor balance preference.
How do I store and reheat it?
Keep leftovers in airtight containers up to 3 days in the fridge. Warm covered in the oven or microwave as described. It also freezes well, making it one of the best Cranberry Sauce Chicken Recipes for planning ahead.
Can I adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes. In a slow cooker, layer and cook on low for 3–4 hours. In an Instant Pot, use “sauté” for the sauce, then “keep warm” to finish cooking. It will differ slightly from the baked consistency but delivers the same comforting Cranberry Chicken Baked flavor.
How can I make it gluten-free or dairy-free?
Use gluten-free ingredients and swap sour cream for non-dairy yogurt or cashew cream with plant-based cheese alternatives—keeping every bite of Cranberry Chicken Casserole creamy and flavorful for everyone.
Comfort in Every Bite – Closing Thoughts
This Leftover Cranberry BBQ Chicken Casserole proves that the magic of the holidays doesn’t have to end with the feast. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can transform your leftover cranberry sauce and roasted chicken into an irresistibly warm, flavorful Holiday Chicken Bake that revives that festive feeling in every bite.
It’s a recipe rooted in comfort—balancing the sweet notes of cranberry with smoky BBQ depth and creamy richness. Beyond taste, it’s about preserving the joy of the season a little longer, using what you already have to create something memorable and satisfying.
Whether feeding family on a quiet evening or prepping ahead for busy weeks, this Cranberry Chicken Recipe fits easily into your routine. Pair it with your favorite sides or center it at your table—it’s comfort and nostalgia in one pan.
Gather those leftovers, preheat the oven, and let the cozy scent of this Cranberry Chicken Baked dish fill your home once more. Warm, simple, and full of flavor, this Leftover Cranberry BBQ Chicken Casserole keeps the holiday spirit alive—one delicious forkful at a time.
