Imagine a dish that brings together tender chicken, fresh green beans, and a creamy sauce. It’s topped with crispy onions for a crunchy finish. This Creamy Chicken and Green Bean Casserole is a hit at family gatherings and holidays. But what makes it so special? Let’s uncover the secrets behind its irresistible taste.
Key Takeaways
- A classic comfort food dish with a modern twist
- Perfect for large family gatherings and holiday meals
- Combines tender chicken, fresh green beans, and a creamy mushroom sauce
- Topped with crispy onions for a delightful texture contrast
- Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time
Why This Creamy Casserole Became a Family Favorite
This Creamy Chicken and Green Bean Casserole is loved by many. It mixes classic comfort food tastes with a fresh twist. This makes it a hit at large gatherings.
Traditional Comfort Food with a Modern Twist
The recipe honors the 1955 green bean casserole by Dorcas Reilley for Campbell’s. But it adds a modern touch. Using cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom makes it more inclusive. This way, more people can enjoy it.
Perfect for Large Family Gatherings
This casserole is great for holiday dinners or big family events. It serves a lot and tastes good to everyone. Plus, it cooks in just 15-20 minutes, which is perfect for hosts who are busy.
Kid-Friendly Vegetable Dish
This casserole is especially good at getting kids to eat their veggies. The creamy, cheesy taste is a hit with kids. It’s a clever way to get them to eat green beans.
Its appeal to all ages, comfort food vibe, and kid-friendly nature make it a family favorite. It’s a beloved recipe in many homes.
Essential Ingredients for Your Chicken and Green Bean Casserole
Making a tasty chicken and green bean casserole starts with the right ingredients. This dish is full of savory and creamy flavors. It’s a meal that everyone will love.
You’ll need 4 cups of cooked, cubed chicken to start. You can roast, grill, or sauté the chicken before using it. Next, add 1 (10-ounce) bag of frozen green beans, thawed first.
The creamy sauce is made with 1 (10.5-ounce) can of cream of chicken soup and 1 1/2 cups of milk. This mix makes the casserole creamy and holds it all together. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over it for extra flavor.
Finally, top it with 2 cups of crispy fried onions. They add a nice crunch and taste. These ingredients make a casserole that’s both comforting and delicious.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked, cubed chicken | 4 cups |
| Frozen green beans, thawed | 1 (10-ounce) bag |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 (10.5-ounce) can |
| Milk | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1 cup |
| Crispy fried onions | 2 cups |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make the Creamy Chicken and Green Bean Casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. A 9×13 inch baking dish, made of glass or ceramic, is key. It ensures even heating and makes serving easy.
You’ll also need a large skillet for cooking the veggies. Mixing bowls of different sizes are useful for mixing ingredients. And, you’ll need measuring cups and spoons to measure everything right.
Additional Cooking Essentials
- Large skillet for sautéing the vegetables
- Mixing bowls of various sizes
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander for draining the cooked green beans
- Whisk for blending the creamy sauce
- Sharp knife for chopping ingredients
Having the right kitchen equipment and baking tools ensures your Creamy Chicken and Green Bean Casserole is perfect every time.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparing the Creamy Chicken and Green Bean Casserole is easy and fun. First, heat your oven to 350-400°F. This ensures the casserole cooks perfectly. While the oven warms up, boil salted water and cook green beans for 2-3 minutes. They should be tender but still crisp. Drain the green beans and set them aside.
Then, sauté diced onions, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic in a skillet with butter. Cook them until they’re soft and smell great, about 5-7 minutes. In another bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. This makes the creamy sauce.
- Mix the cooked green beans, sautéed veggies, and creamy sauce in a big bowl. Stir gently to coat everything well.
- Put the mix in a greased baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges bubble and the top starts to brown.
- Take the casserole out, add crispy fried onions on top, and bake for another 10 minutes. The onions should be golden, and the casserole hot and bubbly.
The whole process takes about 35-40 minutes. This makes it a quick and easy dish for a crowd. Serve it hot and enjoy this comforting, family-friendly casserole!
Secret Tips for the Creamiest Texture
To get the creamiest chicken and green bean casserole, focus on two important steps. First, make sure to drain your green beans well. Then, add cream and cheese slowly.
Proper Draining Techniques
Draining green beans well is crucial for a creamy casserole. Too much water can make it watery. After boiling or blanching, drain and pat the beans dry with paper towels.
Cream and Cheese Incorporation Methods
When making the creamy sauce, add dairy slowly. Whisk in half-and-half bit by bit until it thickens. Also, add cheese gradually for a creamy texture. Using room temperature ingredients makes the sauce smoother.
For an extra creamy touch, add sour cream or cream cheese at the end. If the sauce is too thin, a cornstarch slurry can thicken it before baking.
By following these tips, you’ll make a creamy chicken and green bean casserole your family will love.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
This creamy chicken and green bean casserole is a real treat. It’s not just tasty and comforting. It’s also super easy to make ahead, perfect for busy days or big family events.
You can start making the casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Just prepare the chicken, green beans, and creamy sauce. Then, put everything in a baking dish and cover it. Refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time, add the crispy onion topping and bake.
For leftovers, store the creamy chicken and green bean casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave. Don’t forget to add some fresh crispy onions for that extra crunch.
Freezing is not recommended for this dish. The cream-based sauce might separate and get watery when thawed. But, the make-ahead and storage tips still make it a convenient choice for your next family meal or holiday gathering.
“The ability to prepare this casserole in advance is a game-changer, especially during the busy holiday season. It’s one less thing to worry about on the day of the event.”
With these make-ahead and storage tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this creamy chicken and green bean casserole without the last-minute rush. Just plan ahead, and let the oven do the work when you’re ready to serve up this family-friendly and comforting dish.
Customization Options and Variations
The classic creamy chicken and green bean casserole can be easily customized. Try different cheese options to change the flavor. Shredded Gruyère or grated Parmesan add a sophisticated touch. Or, blend cheddar and mozzarella for creaminess.
For a healthier version, use low-fat cream of chicken soup and less cheese. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for spice. Or, try herbs de Provence for a unique flavor.
Vegetable Alternatives
Green beans are traditional, but you can try other vegetable alternatives. Add diced carrots, sweet peas, or corn kernels. Roasted or sautéed mushrooms make it hearty and comforting.
For crunch, top with sliced almonds or chopped nuts before baking. This adds texture and makes the dish look great.
“The beauty of this casserole is its versatility. By experimenting with different cheese options and vegetable alternatives, you can create a dish that truly reflects your personal taste preferences.”
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
This creamy Chicken and Green Bean Casserole has a lot to offer. A serving, about 1 cup, has 200-300 calories. It’s packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the green beans.
But, it’s also high in sodium and fat. This is because of the cream soup and cheese. To make it healthier, try using low-sodium soup and less cheese. It serves 6-8 people, perfect for big gatherings or potlucks.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 161 |
| Total Fat | 4.4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15.2 g |
| Protein | 14.8 g |
The casserole nutrition is well-rounded. It has a good balance of macronutrients. With a few tweaks, you can make this dish even healthier.
Pairing Suggestions and Side Dishes
Your creamy chicken and green bean casserole is perfect as a main dish. It’s even better with the right side dishes. It pairs well with holiday favorites like roast turkey or baked ham. Try it with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls for a complete meal.
For a lighter touch, add a salad or roasted veggies. This casserole is great for potlucks, family dinners, or weeknights. Add a festive touch with white wine or sparkling cider.
35 Best Easy Side Dish Ideas
Here are 35 easy and tasty side dishes for your chicken and green bean casserole:
- Garlic Green Beans
- Roasted Beet Salad
- Cheesy Cornbread
- Honey-Glazed Carrots
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Sautéed Mushrooms with Garlic
- Buttery Dinner Rolls
- Loaded Cauliflower Mash (for a low-carb option)
- Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
- Cranberry Sauce
| Side Dish | Prep Time | Cooking Method | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garlic Green Beans | 10 minutes | Sautéed | Green beans, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper |
| Roasted Beet Salad | 45 minutes | Oven-roasted | Beets, greens, feta, balsamic vinaigrette |
| Cheesy Cornbread | 1 hour | Baked | Cornmeal, cheddar cheese, eggs, milk |
These side dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures. They complement your creamy chicken and green bean casserole perfectly.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken and green bean casserole is perfect for holiday dinners and family gatherings. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. Its flavors are loved by all, making it a favorite for busy cooks.
It’s great as a side or main dish. This casserole mixes traditional comfort food with new twists. It’s sure to be a hit on dinner tables for many years.
The dish features fresh green beans, homemade fried onions, and a creamy sauce. It’s a mix of textures and tastes. You can adjust it to fit your diet and taste preferences.
This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a great choice for your holiday menu or family dinners all year.
As Thanksgiving gets closer, think about adding this recipe to your list. It’s a family favorite and a versatile casserole. It will likely become a staple on your table for years.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this creamy chicken and green bean casserole?
The main ingredients are cooked chicken, green beans, and cream of chicken soup. You’ll also need milk, cheddar cheese, and crispy fried onions. Mushrooms, celery, onions, and spices like garlic powder add extra flavor.
What kitchen equipment is needed to prepare this casserole?
You’ll need a 9×13 inch baking dish and a skillet for sautéing. Mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons are also essential. A colander, whisk, and sharp knife are useful for prep work.
How do I prepare the creamy chicken and green bean casserole?
Start by preheating the oven. Cook and drain the green beans. Sauté the vegetables and mix the cream sauce. Combine all ingredients and layer them in the dish.
Bake for 15-20 minutes. Top with crispy onions and bake for another 10 minutes. This makes the casserole bubbly and golden.
What are some tips for achieving the creamiest texture?
To get a creamy texture, drain the green beans well. Mix the cream and cheese slowly for even distribution. Using room temperature ingredients helps too.
For extra creaminess, add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, without the onion topping. Keep it covered in the fridge. Add the topping and bake for a bit longer when you’re ready.
How can I customize the casserole to suit my preferences?
Try different cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan. Add carrots, peas, or corn for variety. For a healthier version, use low-fat soup and less cheese.
Spice it up with cayenne pepper or herbs de Provence.
What are the nutritional details and serving size for this casserole?
A serving (about 1 cup) has 200-300 calories. It’s rich in protein and fiber. However, it’s high in sodium and fat due to the cream soup and cheese.
For a healthier option, choose low-sodium soup and use less cheese.
What dishes pair well with this creamy chicken and green bean casserole?
It goes great with holiday mains like turkey or ham. Serve it with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and dinner rolls. For a balanced meal, add a light salad or roasted veggies.
It’s also perfect for potlucks or casual dinners.
