Description
Comfort meets culinary magic in this mouthwatering ultimate chicken casserole recipe that promises pure satisfaction. Layers of creamy goodness and tender chicken create a hearty meal guaranteed to delight your taste buds and warm hungry hearts.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein Components:
- 3 cups (710 ml) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, or green beans)
Dairy and Liquid Components:
- 1 ½ cups (340 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup (115 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces / 298 g) cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup (120 ml) chicken broth
Seasoning and Topping Components:
- 2 cups (450 g) cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or egg noodles)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup (60 g) crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) butter, melted
Instructions
- Prepare a welcoming canvas for this comforting dish by coating a 9×13-inch baking vessel with a light grease layer, then warm the culinary stage to a precise 375°F (190°C).
- Craft a velvety sauce foundation by whisking together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chicken broth, and a harmonious blend of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper until achieving a silky-smooth consistency.
- Introduce cooked chicken, tender pasta, a generous portion of cheddar cheese, melting mozzarella, and vibrant frozen vegetables into the sauce, gently folding until each ingredient is lovingly embraced.
- Carefully transfer the creamy mixture into the prepared baking dish, creating an even landscape and crowning the surface with a sprinkle of remaining cheddar cheese.
- Create a crisp, golden topping by combining crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter, then distribute this crunchy layer evenly across the casserole’s surface.
- Slide the assembled casserole into the preheated oven, allowing it to bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the edges bubble enthusiastically and the topping transforms into a golden-brown masterpiece.
- Permit the casserole a brief moment of rest; approximately 5 minutes; before serving, allowing flavors to settle and textures to harmonize.
Notes
- Select low-sodium cream of chicken soup to control salt intake and create a healthier version of this comforting dish.
- Replace regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs and boost nutritional value.
- Swap chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly adaptation that maintains the creamy texture and flavor profile.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before serving to enhance the casserole’s aroma and introduce a bright, fresh element to the rich, creamy base.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg