When it comes to hearty and comforting meals, nothing beats a classic chicken casserole. The Ultimate Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish loaded with tender shredded chicken, a creamy sauce, and a medley of savory vegetables. Topped with a crispy, cheesy finish, this casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners and will surely become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Directions:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole, followed by the buttered cracker crumbs.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
Serve: Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Serving Tips:
Garnish for Flavor: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top just before serving to add a pop of color and extra flavor.
Pair with Sides: Serve the casserole with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
Individual Portions: For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins. This makes for an attractive presentation and allows guests to enjoy their own serving.
Perfect Temperature: Ensure the casserole is bubbling hot before serving. Let it rest for about 5 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to serve.
Storage Tips:
Cool Down: Allow the casserole to cool completely at room temperature before storing to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.
Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze for Later: To freeze, portion the casserole into individual servings or store it in a larger airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. For best results, wrap the dish in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Microwave Option: You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken, but you will need to cook it first. Boil, bake, or sauté the chicken until fully cooked, then shred it before adding it to the casserole mixture. This can add an extra layer of flavor, especially if you season the chicken during cooking.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade substitute by mixing equal parts of chicken broth and heavy cream or using a white sauce base (butter, flour, and milk) seasoned with chicken bouillon. There are also dairy-free or low-sodium cream soup options available in stores.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! The Ultimate Chicken Casserole freezes well. You can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. If freezing after baking, ensure it cools completely before wrapping.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance! Assemble it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Conclusion:
The Ultimate Chicken Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a dish. Easy to prepare and loaded with flavor, this casserole is sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a comforting dish to share with friends, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try, and enjoy a cozy night in with this delectable chicken casserole!
📖 Recipe:
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Ultimate Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
The Ultimate Chicken Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish loaded with tender shredded chicken, a creamy sauce, and savory mixed vegetables. Topped with a crispy, cheesy finish, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole, then top with the buttered cracker crumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well; just ensure it’s cooled before wrapping and storing.
Customization: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use a different cheese for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 400 kcal (per serving)
Keywords: Chicken casserole, Ultimate Chicken Casserole, comfort food, family dinner, easy casserole recipe, cheesy chicken casserole, baked chicken dish.
