chicken casserole recipe

Easy Chicken Casserole Recipe Ready in 30 Minutes

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When 5 pm hits and hunger strikes, a simple dinner is what you need. I’ve found the perfect fix for you. Say hello to the Easy Chicken Casserole, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a hit with your family, guaranteed.

This casserole is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. Tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a crunchy topping will make your taste buds happy. And it’s ready in the time it takes to watch your favorite show.

Why This Quick Chicken Casserole Will Become Your Go-To Dinner

Busy weeknights call for a dinner that’s tasty and quick to make. The easy chicken casserole fits the bill perfectly. It’s a comforting, budget-friendly dish that’s ready in just 45 minutes. This makes it a top pick for weeknight dinners.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

This easy chicken casserole is a quick fix for hectic weeknights. It cooks in 45 minutes, saving you time. You can prep it fast and let it bake while you do other things, making it a huge time-saver.

Budget-Friendly Comfort Food

This chicken casserole is made with affordable ingredients like rotisserie chicken and canned soup. It’s a cost-effective way to feed your family. The creamy, comforting flavors and textures make it a satisfying comfort food without the high cost.

Make-Ahead Option

This easy chicken casserole is also super versatile. You can prep it ahead and refrigerate it. Then, just bake it when you’re ready to eat. This make-ahead feature is a big help for those with busy lives, ensuring a tasty, homemade meal is always ready.

easy chicken casserole

“This chicken casserole has become a staple in our household. It’s so easy to make, and my family loves the cozy, comforting flavors. I often make a double batch and freeze one for a later date – it’s a lifesaver on those nights when I don’t have time to cook.”

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Casserole Recipe

Making a tasty chicken casserole begins with the right mix of ingredients. The main parts that make this dish a favorite include:

  • Cooked Chicken – About 3 cups of chopped, cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, form the base.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup – A 10-ounce can of condensed cream of chicken soup adds a rich, creamy texture.
  • Sour Cream – 1 cup of sour cream boosts the creaminess and tanginess of the dish.
  • Milk – 1/2 cup of milk makes the casserole mixture just right in consistency.
  • Stuffing Mix – A 6-ounce package of dry bread stuffing mix adds a flavorful, crunchy topping.
  • Butter – 1/2 cup of melted butter helps the stuffing mix stick together for a golden, crispy finish.

For even more flavor, you can add diced onions, shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen mixed vegetables. These extra ingredients add to the dish’s depth.

chicken casserole ingredients

“The key to a truly delicious chicken casserole is finding the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy elements.”

By choosing and mixing these key ingredients, you can make a chicken casserole that’s both comforting and fulfilling.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the tasty Easy Chicken Casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. First, grab a 2-quart or 8×8 inch baking dish for baking. You’ll also need a large mixing bowl for mixing ingredients and a medium bowl for the topping. A silicone spatula is crucial for smoothing the mix into the dish.

Accurate measurements are key for a perfect dish. So, have your measuring cups and spoons ready. If you’re boiling pasta, you’ll need a pot. An instant-read thermometer helps check if the chicken is cooked. Lastly, use non-stick cooking spray to grease the dish for easy cleaning.

  • 9×13 inch baking dish
  • 8×8 inch square baking dish
  • 2-quart casserole dish

Essential Utensils

  1. Large mixing bowl
  2. Medium-sized bowl (for topping)
  3. Silicone spatula
  4. Wooden spoon
  5. Can opener

Measuring Tools

  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Liquid measuring cup

With these kitchen utensils and measuring cups ready, you’re set to make a delicious casserole dish everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Making the perfect chicken casserole is easy with this recipe. Follow these steps to make a dish your family will love.

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the cubed or shredded chicken in a 2-quart baking dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir until smooth.
  4. Pour the creamy mix over the chicken, making sure it’s spread evenly.
  5. In another bowl, combine the stuffing mix, melted butter, and hot water. Sprinkle this over the chicken and creamy base.
  6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes.
  7. Take off the foil and bake for another 5 minutes. This will make the topping golden and the casserole bubbly.
  8. Let the chicken casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors mix well.

This chicken casserole recipe is ready in about 40 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight. Follow these cooking instructions for a tasty and baking time meal!

IngredientQuantity
Chicken, cooked and shredded5 cups
Cream of mushroom soup1 (10.5 oz) can
Sour cream1 cup
Milk1/2 cup
Stuffing mix1 1/2 cups
Butter, melted1/4 cup
Hot water1/4 cup

Tips for Making the Creamiest Casserole Base

To get the perfect creamy chicken casserole, pick the right cream soup and get the sauce just right. You can use cream of chicken soup or try cream of celery or cream of mushroom. The goal is to mix flavors and textures well.

Choosing the Right Cream Soup

Cream of chicken soup is a top pick for casseroles, giving a deep, savory taste. But, you can also try cream of celery or cream of mushroom for different flavors. Just make sure the soup you choose goes well with your dish’s other ingredients.

Perfect Sauce Consistency

To get the sauce just right, mix the cream soup with 1/2 cup of milk. This makes the soup thinner and more pourable. For an even creamier sauce, add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. Adjust the amount of liquid to get the creamy chicken casserole just right.

IngredientQuantity
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk1/2 cup
Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt1/2 cup

By using these tips, you’ll make a delicious creamy chicken casserole. It will have a rich, tasty base that everyone will love.

How to Achieve the Perfect Crispy Topping

Adding a crispy casserole topping can make your chicken casserole stand out. You can choose from a classic breadcrumb topping or a savory stuffing mix. The right topping can turn your casserole into a masterpiece.

Here are some easy tips to get that perfect crispy topping:

  1. Use Panko breadcrumbs for a light and airy topping. Mix 1/2 cup of Panko breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup of melted butter. Spread it over your casserole before baking.
  2. Try a dry bread stuffing mix for a heartier topping. Mix it with hot water and melted butter, then spoon it over your casserole.
  3. Broil the casserole for extra crispiness. Just be careful not to burn the topping.

With these tips, you’ll make a crispy casserole topping that everyone will love. Your family and friends will ask for more.

Topping IngredientQuantityPreparation
Panko Breadcrumbs1/2 cupMixed with 1/4 cup melted butter
Dry Bread Stuffing MixAs neededMoistened with hot water and melted butter

Vegetable and Add-in Options

Creating a tasty chicken and vegetable casserole is all about choice. You can pick from classic combos or try something new. The right veggies and extras can make the dish even better.

Frozen mixed veggies like peas, carrots, and green beans are a hit. They add color and flavor. For extra freshness, chop up carrots and celery to mix in.

Cheese Selection Guide

Cheese is key in a casserole, and the chicken and vegetable casserole is no different. 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese is a top pick for its creamy taste. You can also try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavors. Add the cheese to the soup or sprinkle it on top for a nice texture mix.

IngredientQuantity
Shredded Chicken3 cups
Riced Cauliflower12 oz
Green Beans (cut into bite-sized pieces)1 cup
Corn1/3 cup
Peas1/3 cup
Cream Cheese4 oz
Chicken Broth4 oz
Butter (melted)2 tbsp
Half and Half or Heavy Cream2 oz
Garlic Powder1 tsp
Onion Powder1 tsp
Salt1 tsp
Black Pepper1/2 tsp
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (for topping)1 cup

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Wondering how to store and reheat your leftover chicken casserole? Follow these easy guidelines to keep your casserole fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

To store your leftover casserole, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

When reheating your leftover casserole, you have a few options:

  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and heat in the microwave for 2-5 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot.
  • Stovetop: Transfer the casserole to a saucepan and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until piping hot.

For best results, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating. This helps keep the casserole moist and prevents it from drying out.

Reheating MethodRecommended TimeInternal Temperature Target
Microwave2-5 minutes165°F
Oven30-60 minutes165°F
Stovetop15-20 minutes165°F

After reheating, let the leftover casserole rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the temperature to stabilize before serving.

By following these simple storage and reheating guidelines, you can enjoy your delicious chicken casserole even as tasty leftovers.

Dietary Modifications and Substitutions

This easy chicken casserole recipe can be modified for different diets. Whether you’re on a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, we have simple swaps. These won’t change the taste or texture of this comforting dish.

Gluten-Free Options

For a gluten-free version, replace regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free type. Barilla’s ziti or penne work well. Also, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free dish.

Dairy-Free Alternatives

To make it dairy-free, swap sour cream with cashew cream or vegan cream cheese. For the cheese topping, choose a dairy-free shredded cheese or nutritional yeast. Adjust the seasoning to match the flavor changes.

FAQ

What makes this chicken casserole recipe so quick and easy?

This chicken casserole recipe is ready in just 30 minutes. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare. It uses a rotisserie chicken and canned soup, making it perfect for busy nights.

How many servings does this chicken casserole recipe yield?

The recipe serves 6 people. It makes a 2-quart casserole.

Can this chicken casserole be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. It’s great for meal planning.

What are the key ingredients in this chicken casserole?

The main ingredients are 3 cups of chopped cooked chicken, 10 oz can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 1/2 cup milk, 6 oz dry bread stuffing mix, and 1/2 cup melted butter.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make this chicken casserole?

You’ll need a 2-quart or 8×8 inch baking dish, a large mixing bowl, and a medium bowl for the topping. A silicone spatula and measuring cups and spoons are also essential. A pot for boiling pasta and an instant-read thermometer are useful. Non-stick cooking spray makes clean-up easy.

How do I prepare the chicken casserole?

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the baking dish. Mix the soup, sour cream, and milk, then pour over the chicken. Mix the stuffing mix with melted butter and hot water, and sprinkle over the chicken. Bake for about 30 minutes until bubbly. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.

How can I make the casserole base creamier?

Use condensed cream of chicken soup for a creamy base. You can also try cream of celery, mushroom, or cheddar soup. Mix 1/2 cup milk with the soup for the right consistency. Adding 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt can make it creamier and tastier.

How can I achieve a crispy topping on the chicken casserole?

For a crispy topping, mix 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup melted butter. Spread it evenly over the casserole before baking. Or, use dry bread stuffing mix moistened with hot water and melted butter.

What are some recommended vegetable and cheese options for this chicken casserole?

Add 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables or fresh diced carrots and celery. Use 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. You can also try Monterey Jack, Colby, or Mexican blend cheese.

How do I store and reheat leftover chicken casserole?

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, tightly covered. Freeze it for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes. Add a little milk or broth to keep it moist.

What dietary modifications can be made for this chicken casserole?

For gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of chicken soup, pasta, and breadcrumbs. Try plant-based milk and vegan cream cheese or cashew cream instead of sour cream. Use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for cheese flavor. Adjust seasonings as needed for flavor changes.

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