Chicken Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, vegetables, and a crunchy topping, all baked together in one pan. This classic recipe is easy to customize and can be made ahead for effortless dinners that everyone will enjoy.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked chicken breastrice or egg noodlescream of chicken soupsour creamcheddar cheesefrozen mixed vegetablesonion powdergarlic powdersalt and peppercrushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbsbuttermelted

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, rice or noodles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheese, and vegetables.

Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then stir until well mixed.

Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter.

Sprinkle the buttery topping evenly over the casserole.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesBaking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery for a flavor twist.

Add cooked bacon or diced ham for extra protein.

Top with French-fried onions instead of crackers for added crunch.

Mix in broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for more vegetables.

storage/reheating

Store Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.To reheat, bake covered at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use uncooked chicken?

It’s best to use cooked chicken to ensure even baking and texture.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is traditional, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella are great alternatives.

Can I use fresh vegetables?

Yes, but blanch or sauté them first to soften before mixing in.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soup and crackers to make it gluten-free.

Can I leave out the sour cream?

You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or extra soup, but it changes the flavor.

How do I keep the topping crispy?

Bake uncovered and add the topping right before baking.

Can I add spices?

Yes, paprika, thyme, or Italian seasoning add depth.

What can I serve with Chicken Casserole?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or two pans.

Conclusion

Chicken Casserole is a simple, satisfying dish that brings comfort and flavor in every bite. With minimal prep and easy customizations, it’s a go-to recipe for both weeknight meals and potluck gatherings. Whip it up once, and it may just become a staple in your kitchen.

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