Description
Chicken Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a flavorful blend of vegetables, all baked to perfection. This casserole is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, offering a satisfying and wholesome meal in one dish. Whether served with a side salad or simply on its own, this dish will surely become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as elbow macaroni, penne, or egg noodles)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or any preferred mixed vegetables)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
Ingredient Highlights
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, saving you time and adding great flavor to the casserole.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This classic ingredient gives the casserole a creamy base and helps hold everything together.
- Sour Cream: Adds a slight tanginess and extra creaminess to the dish, balancing out the richness.
- Cheddar and Parmesan Cheese: These cheeses contribute both flavor and a golden, bubbly topping.
- Pasta: The pasta soaks up all the creamy goodness and helps create a comforting texture.
- Breadcrumbs and Butter: A crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a nice contrast to the soft, creamy filling.
Instructions
Prepare the Casserole Filling:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
- Mix the Casserole Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, peas and carrots, sautéed onion and garlic, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Prepare the Topping:
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. If the breadcrumbs start to brown too quickly, cover the casserole with foil and continue baking.
Cool and Serve:
- Cool: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to slice.
- Serve: Serve hot, and enjoy your comforting, creamy chicken casserole!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 28g