Cheddar Bay Chicken Cobbler is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender, shredded chicken with creamy sauce, mixed vegetables, and a golden, cheesy biscuit topping. Inspired by the iconic Cheddar Bay biscuits, this casserole-style recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a rich, satisfying meal thatโs perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or special occasions.
The magic of this dish lies in its combination of flavors and textures. Juicy, shredded chicken mingles with creamy sour cream, savory cream of chicken soup, and flavorful mixed vegetables, creating a luscious filling. Topped with Cheddar Bay biscuits and extra shredded cheddar, each bite offers a delicious contrast between the soft, buttery biscuit and the creamy, savory chicken mixture underneath. The addition of garlic powder, black pepper, and optional parsley ensures every serving is aromatic, flavorful, and visually appealing.
This recipe is approachable, using a boxed Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix for convenience while still allowing customization and creativity. Whether youโre an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish guarantees comforting flavors with minimal effort. In this article, youโll find everything you need: ingredients, preparation instructions, expert tips, serving suggestions, variations, storage advice, and frequently asked questions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 packet Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (plus ingredients listed on packet)
- 1 ยฝ cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- ยฝ cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ยฝ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 ยฝ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Preparation Method
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, chicken broth, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined, creating a creamy, flavorful filling. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using fresh parsley, fold in half of it at this stage for subtle herbaceous notes.
3. Prepare the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping
Follow the instructions on the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix packet to prepare the biscuit dough. This usually involves combining the mix with milk, butter, and any other required ingredients listed on the packet. Once the dough is ready, set it aside.
4. Assemble the Cobbler
Pour the prepared chicken mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle 1 ยฝ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken mixture for a rich, melty layer of flavor.
Spoon the biscuit dough evenly over the top of the chicken and cheese mixture. You can leave small gaps between the biscuits, as they will expand while baking and form a beautiful, golden crust. Brush the melted butter over the tops of the biscuits to ensure a shiny, golden finish.
5. Bake the Cobbler
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25โ30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through. The filling should be bubbling around the edges, and the biscuits should have a slight golden crispness on top.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove the cobbler from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle the remaining parsley on top for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm, straight from the dish, for a comforting, hearty meal.
Tips for a Perfect Cheddar Bay Chicken Cobbler
- Ensure the chicken is cooked: Pre-cooked chicken works best, whether roasted, boiled, or rotisserie-style.
- Avoid watery filling: Drain excess liquid from vegetables if necessary to prevent a soggy cobbler.
- Even biscuit placement: Space biscuits evenly to ensure they bake uniformly.
- Enhance flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to the filling for subtle depth and warmth.
- Cheese variety: Mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different melt and flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Cheddar Bay Chicken Cobbler is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette for balance
- Steamed or roasted vegetables for extra nutrition
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to scoop up the filling
- Mashed potatoes or rice on the side for an extra comforting meal
This dish is a full meal on its own, but pairing it with light sides helps balance the richness of the cheese and creamy filling.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Cobbler: Add chopped jalapeรฑos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a subtle kick.
- Vegetable Boost: Include mushrooms, peas, or corn for added texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free biscuit mix or make a homemade gluten-free topping.
- Cheese Twist: Add a sprinkle of smoked cheddar or Gruyรจre for a deeper, nutty flavor.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be mixed into the filling for aromatic depth.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 10โ12 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option, but the biscuit topping may lose some crispness. For meal prep, assemble the cobbler in advance but bake just before serving to retain the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this recipe.
2. Can I make this cobbler ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the filling and biscuit topping, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
3. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, but ensure fresh vegetables are lightly sautรฉed or blanched to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. Use a dairy-free biscuit mix, plant-based milk, dairy-free sour cream, and vegan cheese alternatives.
5. How do I make the biscuits extra golden and crispy?
Brush the tops with melted butter before baking, and avoid overcrowding them to allow for even browning.
6. Can I freeze the cobbler?
Yes. Assemble the cobbler in a freezer-safe dish and freeze unbaked. Bake from frozen, adding 5โ10 minutes to the baking time.
Cheddar Bay Chicken Cobbler: A Comforting Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4โ6 servings
Description
Cheddar Bay Chicken Cobbler is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, and creamy sauce, all topped with Cheddar Bay biscuit crust for a rich, cheesy finish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 packet Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (plus ingredients listed on packet)
- 1 ยฝ cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- ยฝ cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ยฝ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (optional)
- 1 ยฝ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven according to Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix instructions.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, chicken broth, garlic powder, black pepper, and parsley.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Prepare Cheddar Bay biscuit topping according to packet instructions and place over chicken mixture evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for 20โ25 minutes or until biscuits are golden and cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Add extra vegetables like carrots or peas for more color and nutrition.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Cheddar Bay Chicken Cobbler is a versatile, comforting dish that combines creamy chicken filling with cheesy, golden biscuits for a meal that satisfies both the eyes and the palate. Its simple preparation, rich flavors, and hearty texture make it perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or special gatherings. With tips for perfect texture, serving suggestions, and customizable variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in any household. Whether served warm from the oven or reheated for a quick meal, Cheddar Bay Chicken Cobbler offers comforting flavors and satisfying heartiness that everyone will love.