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Ultimate Chicken Casserole

Ultimate Chicken Casserole
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The Ultimate Chicken Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, cooked rice or pasta, vegetables, and a golden, crispy topping. Easy to prepare with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, offering a satisfying blend of creamy and crunchy textures. Customizable to suit various dietary needs and preferences, it’s a beloved, versatile dish that brings warmth and happiness to the table.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breasts or thighs, shredded or diced

Sauce and Base

  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 2 cups cooked rice or pasta
  • 1 to 1.5 cups vegetables (peas, broccoli, or choice)

Cheese and Toppings

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs

Seasonings

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cook and shred or dice your chicken by boiling, baking, or using leftover cooked chicken to ensure a tender, flavorful base for the casserole.
  2. Mix the Sauce and Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, cooked rice or pasta, vegetables, and seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder). Stir in the prepared chicken until everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Generously top with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and your choice of crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs to create a delightful crunchy layer.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden, bubbly, slightly crispy, and the casserole is heated through.
  5. Let it Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking. This resting time helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve with a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures.

Notes

  • Use freshly cooked chicken for best flavor and texture rather than pre-packaged or deli meats.
  • Don’t overcook the rice or pasta before baking; slightly undercook them to avoid mushiness.
  • Mix vegetables evenly for balanced bites throughout the casserole.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a pronounced flavor.
  • Let the casserole rest after baking to help the flavors meld and improve serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, creamy chicken dish, baked chicken casserole, family dinner, one-dish meal, cozy dinner

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/ultimate-chicken-casserole/