What is Buttery Garlic Chicken Casserole?

Buttery Garlic Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish inspired by Chicken Kiev. This recipe combines chicken tenders with a rich, buttery garlic sauce, brightened with lemon zest and juice. Add broccoli for a nutritious boost and serve over rice or noodles.

Can I make Buttery Garlic Chicken Casserole in the microwave?

Yes, you can make this dish in the microwave but be sure to use an Anyday dish for best results (i.e. tender, not-rubbery chicken). Simply follow the recipe instructions above, adjusting the cooking times based on your microwave wattage. For the best texture and flavor, cook the sauce first, then add the chicken and cook at a lower power level for tender and juicy results. The lid on your Anyday dish will help cook the chicken from the inside out and keep the dish moist.

Why do I need to lower the power level?

Lowering the power level allows the chicken to cook gently in the sauce. By using a reduced power setting, you allow the flavors to meld perfectly, and avoid rubbery chicken. Find out more about power levels in our blog here.

The butter is pooling on top — is this normal?

It is totally expected for the butter to pool on top of the sauce in this dish. It was inspired by the recipe for Chicken Kiev, where a thin chicken cutlet is wrapped around cold butter and deep fried. When the Chicken Kiev is sliced, the butter pools onto the plate (just like this casserole!) so you can dip each bite of chicken into the flavorful, buttery sauce.

Why make the sauce first?

By making the sauce first, you’ll make sure it thickens to the ideal consistency. Thickening it before adding the chicken allows the chicken's juices to seep into the sauce, resulting in a rich and smooth texture.

Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! You can use spinach, Swiss chard, kale, green beans, peas, snap peas, or asparagus as alternatives. To ensure the vegetables retain a slight crunch,, add the vegetables 3-5 minutes before the cooking time ends, depending on the serving size.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free or gluten-free?

Absolutely! To make a dairy-free version, substitute a plant-based alternative for the butter and coconut milk for the heavy cream. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cornstarch and use either gluten-free panko breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, chicken breast can be used in place of chicken tenders. Keep in mind that chicken breasts may need a longer cooking time due to their thickness. For more even cooking, cut the chicken breasts into smaller, bite-sized pieces.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, simply cook the creamy chicken casserole, let it cool completely, cover with the lid and refrigerate until ready to reheat. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the casserole in the microwave and add the breadcrumbs, finishing the recipe as instructed in step 6 making sure to preheat the oven to 500°F.

How long can I store leftovers? Can I freeze it?

You can store the cooked casserole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it in an Anyday dish with the lid on, and reheat for 1-4 minutes, depending on the serving size. If you want to freeze it, let the cooked casserole cool completely, cover with the lid, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply place the Anyday dish in the microwave and reheat at full power. For more tips on reheating, check out our reheating blog.