Are you looking for a comforting and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further! Creamy chicken leg quarter casseroles are a staple in many households, and it’s not hard to see why. With their rich and creamy sauces, tender chicken, and satisfying crunch from the crispy topping, these casseroles are sure to become a family favorite.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our most popular creamy chicken leg quarter casserole recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic comfort food flavors to bold and adventurous twists, there’s something for everyone in this list. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion deserves a show-stopping main course, we’ve got you covered.
So let’s dive in and explore the world of creamy chicken leg quarter casseroles!
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this satisfying and flavorful casserole, featuring juicy chicken leg quarters smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and thyme.
5. Arrange the chicken leg quarters in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cream mixture over the top of the chicken.
6. Sprinkle cooked bacon and shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines the richness of garlic and parmesan cheese with the comfort of chicken leg quarters. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and breadcrumbs.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place chicken leg quarters on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle the garlic-breadcrumb mixture evenly over each quarter.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of each quarter.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the rich flavors of chicken, mushrooms, and cream, making it a perfect dish for a cozy night in. With its simple preparation and satisfying taste, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the chicken is browned and the vegetables are tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Leg Quarter Hot Dish
Spicy Cajun Chicken Leg Quarter Hot Dish: A flavorful one-pot meal that combines the spicy kick of cayenne pepper with the comfort of chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, diced red bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the chicken leg quarters to the pot, then pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Lemon Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
Brighten up your dinner table with this flavorful and aromatic chicken leg quarter bake. Fresh herbs and citrusy lemon zest infuse the dish with a delightful Mediterranean twist.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon zest, juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken leg quarters in a large baking dish, leaving some space between each quarter.
4. Brush the lemon mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure they’re all coated.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
6. Remove from oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of tender chicken, steamed broccoli, and creamy cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 large head of broccoli, trimmed
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish, add 2 tbsp water, cover with a paper towel, and steam for 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, cream of chicken soup, and thyme. Add shredded cheese and mix until smooth.
4. Arrange the chicken leg quarters in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cheese mixture over the top, then add steamed broccoli florets.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southwest Chicken Leg Quarter Black Bean Bake
This flavorful dish is a perfect blend of spicy and savory, with the smoky taste of chicken leg quarters complemented by the richness of black beans and the boldness of Southwestern spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken leg quarters
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together black beans, onion, garlic, olive oil, chili powder, and cumin.
3. Add chicken leg quarters to the bowl and toss to coat with the bean mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and return to oven for an extra minute.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
Elevate your comfort food game with this flavorful casserole that combines juicy chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy goodness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken leg quarters over medium-high heat until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Transfer chicken to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with sun-dried tomatoes, onion, garlic, and cheese.
4. Pour heavy cream over the top and sprinkle with oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
A creamy, cheesy twist on traditional chicken leg quarters, this recipe combines the flavors of spinach and artichokes with tender chicken for a satisfying main course. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together artichoke hearts, spinach, cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken leg quarters to the bowl and toss until coated with the spinach-artichoke mixture.
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Ranch Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
A comforting casserole that combines the flavors of BBQ and ranch, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken leg quarters
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken leg quarters until browned on all sides. Drain excess fat.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together BBQ sauce and ranch dressing.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked chicken, BBQ-ranch mixture, shredded cheese, chopped onion, and bell pepper.
5. Sprinkle garlic powder and salt to taste.
6. Top with cooked white rice.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Alfredo Chicken Leg Quarter Pasta Bake
This comforting casserole combines the rich flavors of chicken, pasta, and creamy Alfredo sauce for a satisfying weeknight meal. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken leg quarters to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, Alfredo sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked chicken leg quarters in a single layer. Top with the pasta mixture and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes to brown the top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Loaded Potato Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the ease of chicken leg quarters with the indulgent goodness of loaded potatoes, all in one satisfying dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken leg quarters until browned on both sides. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced potatoes, diced onion, and butter. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked chicken and potato mixture in alternating layers.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with sour cream.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mediterranean Olive Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
Discover the flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy and delicious recipe that combines chicken leg quarters, olives, and herbs for a savory and aromatic dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken leg quarters to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange the chicken leg quarters on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Top each chicken piece with sliced olives and sprinkle with parsley.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
Thai Peanut Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole: A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional chicken casserole, featuring the bold flavors of Thai peanut sauce and crispy chicken leg quarters.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1/2 cup creamy Thai peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 cup cooked jasmine rice
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut sauce, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Add chicken leg quarters and toss until coated evenly.
4. In a separate pan, sauté bell peppers and onion until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked rice in the bottom. Top with peanut-coated chicken leg quarters, followed by sautéed vegetables.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
French Onion Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this savory and aromatic French Onion Chicken Leg Quarter Bake. Rich flavors and tender chicken will make it a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 1/2 cup of white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp of butter
– 1 tsp of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onions and garlic in butter until caramelized.
3. Add chicken leg quarters to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes on each side.
4. Transfer chicken and onions to a baking dish. Pour beef broth and white wine (if using) over the top.
5. Sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
A sweet and tangy twist on a classic comfort food dish, this casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Crispy chicken leg quarters smothered in a honey mustard sauce, topped with melted cheddar cheese – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard.
3. Line a baking dish with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange chicken leg quarters in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle chopped onion and minced garlic evenly.
5. Pour honey mustard sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle with paprika.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
Transform your weeknight dinner with this creamy, flavorful Pesto Mozzarella Chicken Leg Quarter Bake. A simple yet impressive main course that’s ready in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 4 chicken leg quarters
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and chicken leg quarters until well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the coated chicken leg quarters on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Top each chicken piece with sliced mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buffalo Blue Cheese Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken casserole! This spicy and tangy dish combines the bold flavors of buffalo sauce, creamy blue cheese crumbles, and crispy fried onions with tender chicken leg quarters.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup crispy fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together buffalo wing sauce and blue cheese crumbles.
3. Add chicken leg quarters to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Arrange marinated chicken in a single layer.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, and crispy fried onions over the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Wild Rice Chicken Leg Quarter Hot Dish
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for a cozy evening with family and friends. This hot dish combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with tender chicken leg quarters, all in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 1 cup wild rice blend
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chicken leg quarters to the skillet; cook for 5-7 minutes or until browned.
4. Stir in the wild rice blend, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove the foil; continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken cooked through.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this smoky and flavorful chicken leg quarter bake. A simple combination of paprika, garlic, and thyme creates a rich and aromatic sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and thyme.
3. Season the chicken leg quarters with salt and pepper, then brush the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with 20 deliciously creamy chicken leg quarter casserole recipes that are sure to become family favorites! From cheesy bacon and garlicky parmesan to spicy Cajun and herby lemon, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering collection. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or an international twist, these casseroles are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the warm, fuzzy feeling that comes with a job well done!
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