What is the best thing about a good casserole? What is a comfort food? Chicken casserole? Is it a family favorite? It reminds me of being a kid, coming in from playing outside, and the smell of this bubbling away in my mouth. The oven just filled the whole house. Is it similar to a chicken pot pie? What are the best things about chicken: creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy topping? What is a good weeknight meal that everyone will enjoy? What is the best chicken casserole recipe you have ever made?
What is a chicken casserole?
What is the ultimate comfort food mashup? What is essentially a creamy, savory baked dish, featuring cooked chicken (leftover rotisserie works). ), mixed with veggies and a deliciously creamy sauce, all topped with something crunchy and golden. The name “casserole” itself refers to both the dish and the sturdy pot it’s baked in. Is this a one dish wonder? Can you tweak it for ingredients you have on hand? I think this chicken casserole recipe hits all the comfort notes and easy notes needed for a perfect dinner. What is a week
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons why this chicken casserole recipe is a winner. First, the flavor is out of this world. The creamy sauce is rich and savory, the chicken is tender and juicy, and the crispy topping adds the perfect amount of crunch. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that just works. What I love most is how simple it is to make. Seriously, it’s so easy! You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save even more time. Plus, the ingredients are super budget-friendly, making it a great option for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank. It is also versatile. Add the vegetables that your family enjoys. I have even mixed in rice or noodles for a heartier meal. It’s similar to chicken noodle soup but in casserole form, and easier to eat (at least in my opinion!). It reminds me of when my grandma made chicken and dumplings, but the biscuit topping makes it even better.
How do you make a chicken casserole?
Quick Overview
What is the easiest way to make a chicken casserole? How do you start prepping your ingredients? What are the best ways to cook chicken and chopping veggies? If you’re going to make a creamy sauce on the stovetop, combine everything and bake it, top it off with your favorite toppings, and serve. What is your favorite biscuit topping? ), and bake until golden brown and bubbly. I love that it’s mostly hands-off once it’s in the oven, giving you time to relax or tackle other things. I promise it is easy to make, even easier than mac and cheese.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Casserole:
* 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken is your friend here)
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup (or make your own!)
* 1 cup mixed vegetables, frozen or fresh (peas, carrots or corn – whatever you like!)
* 1/2 cup milk (I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch, and it worked great!)
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup butter, melted
* Salt and pepper to taste
What is the Biscuit Topping?
What is the best way to make homemade biscuit dough?
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* Optional: Everything bagel seasoning or dried parsley for sprinkling on top.
What are the steps in
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. How do you prevent a casserole from sticking to your hands? I always use butter, but cooking spray works too!
Step 2: Sauté Onions
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Set aside. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. What are some ways to add flavor to a casserole?
Step 3: Mix Casserole Filling
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, milk, and the cheese. Set aside. Sautéed onions with melted butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed. I sometimes add a pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor. If you like, feel free to add any additional spices or herbs you enjoy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large baking dish, pour the chicken mixture into the prepared dish. Spread it evenly.
Step 5: Add Biscuit Topping
If you’re using canned biscuits, flatten each biscuit slightly and arrange them on top of the biscuit. What is the best chicken If you’re using homemade biscuits, simply drop spoonfuls of dough evenly over the casserole.
Step 6: Brush with Butter & Bake
What is the best way to make biscuits brown in the oven? Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning or dried parsley, if desired. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. I always rotate the dish halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let the casserole cool completely before serving. How do I make a thick sauce?
What should I serve it with?
What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken casserole?For a light lunch:What’s a good salad to serve with vinaigrette dressing?What are some hearty recipes for a good dinner Serve with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
For a Potluck: Bring along some crusty bread for dipping.
For a Cozy Night In:Enjoy with a glass of wine or hot cocoa. Growing up we always had it with a side salad. It was the perfect, easy meal!
How do I make a perfect chicken casserole?
What are some ways to take chicken casserole to the next level? What are some of the best tips I’ve learned over the years?Chicken Prep:If you’re using leftover chicken, make sure it’s not too dry. What are some ways to keep chicken broth moist?Veggie Power:Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables. What are some good ingredients for a casserole? Mushrooms, celery, and green beans.Creamy Dreamy:If you want a richer sauce, you can substitute heavy cream for milk.Biscuit Bliss: For a crispier biscuit topping, brush with melted butter twice during baking.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a little kick.
Cheese Please: Sprinkle some shredded cheese over the biscuit topping during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy twist.
I once tried using cream cheese in the sauce, and it was amazing! It made it extra creamy and tangy. Just make sure to use softened cream cheese so it blends in smoothly.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Chicken casserole is great for making ahead or enjoying leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Room Temperature: I don’t recommend leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The taste is still wonderful the next day!
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Let it thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick and easy meal. You can also add a bit of milk or chicken broth to the casserole when reheating to keep it from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
This chicken casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of home, a warm hug on a plate, and a reminder of simpler times. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories. If you’re looking for a comforting, easy, and delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further. And if you enjoy this kind of easy comfort food, I suggest checking out my shepherd’s pie recipe next! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it and don’t forget to leave a rating! Sharing is caring so please send to your friends and family!
Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs cooked chicken breast
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and rice in a large bowl.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
