Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food. They offer a hearty and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.

This chicken casserole recipe combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping. It creates a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you. It will help you make a delicious chicken casserole that everyone will love.

Ingredients: Chicken Casserole Recipe

For the Casserole:

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (such as egg noodles)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn), thawed

For the Topping:

• 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice or pasta, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, and chicken broth.
• Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Mix until everything is well combined.

3. Add the Vegetables:

• Gently fold in the thawed mixed vegetables until evenly distributed throughout the casserole mixture.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish:

• Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

5. Prepare the Topping:

• In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley if using.
• Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

6. Bake:

• Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

7. Serve:

• Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Tips: Chicken Casserole Recipe

• Rotisserie Chicken Shortcut: Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor to the casserole.
• Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
• Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites, or add in extras like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? A: Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just be sure to cook them slightly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they’re tender after baking.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover casserole? A: Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. Cover with foil or a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.

Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free? A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup, gluten-free breadcrumbs or crackers for the topping, and ensure that your other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: Can I substitute the chicken with another protein? A: Yes, you can use turkey, ham, or even ground beef as a substitute for chicken. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the protein choice.

Q: How long does this casserole last in the fridge? A: Stored in an airtight container, this casserole will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.