– **Title**: Creamy Chicken Casserole
– **Ingredients**:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 can ( cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed plain bread crumbs (for topping)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for bread crumbs)
– Optional garnish: chopped parsley
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Mix well until smooth.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.
4. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken mixture.
6. In a small bowl, mix the crushed bread crumbs with olive oil until moist. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.
7. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the edges are bubbly and the top is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving. Enjoy your creamy chicken casserole!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Pasta: I love using penne for its ability to hold onto the sauce, but elbow macaroni works great too. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lower-carb choice.
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you’re vegetarian, try swapping in chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms for a protein boost.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a nice richness. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses. Vegan cheese can also be a good substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
Cream of Chicken Soup: For a lighter version, use a homemade equivalent or swap with cream of mushroom soup. This change can add an earthy flavor.
Bell Peppers: While any color works, I prefer red for its sweetness. Don’t have peppers? Sautéed onions or frozen mixed vegetables can fill in nicely!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Creamy and Delicious?
The key to achieving that creamy texture is the combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Mix these together well to create a smooth base. Also, make sure the pasta is al dente before combining—this helps it absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Incorporate all your ingredients into the mixing bowl, stirring thoroughly to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
- Consider adding a little milk or broth if you prefer a creamier consistency.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking. Letting it cool helps everything set.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 3 cups cooked pasta (penne or elbow)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you can expect to spend around 40-45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be hot and ready once your casserole is assembled.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, diced bell peppers, and frozen peas (if you’re using them). Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and all the ingredients are coated with the creamy sauces.
3. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks evenly throughout. Once that’s done, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the mixture.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, carefully take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set up a bit. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a splash of color and extra flavor. Now, it’s ready to serve! Enjoy your creamy chicken casserole!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese adds a nice flavor, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a combination of cheeses for a different taste profile. Just ensure the cheese melts well for that creamy texture!
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more veggies, like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You could also include beans for added protein, and use vegetable broth or a veggie-based cream soup instead of cream of chicken soup.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated thoroughly. You can also use the microwave but check occasionally to avoid overheating.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole! Cover it tightly with foil or cling wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s still a bit cold when you put it in the oven.
