chicken cream casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken cream casserole recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – chicken cream casserole. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.

The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy vegetables all come together to create a truly satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner after a long day or a show-stopping main course for your next family gathering, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time – just 30 minutes from start to finish!

So grab some chicken, cream, and veggies, and let’s get cooking!

Creamy Chicken Casserole

4.7 from 1215 votes

A comforting and creamy chicken casserole perfect for a family dinner. Tender chicken pieces in a rich, creamy sauce topped with crispy breadcrumbs.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika

For the Sauce

1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Season chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Set aside.
3In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
4Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
6Stir in flour to create a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
8Gradually pour in chicken broth while whisking continuously.
9Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
10Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
11Remove from heat.
12Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
13Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
14In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
15Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the chicken and sauce.
16Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden brown.
17The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F.
18Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like peas or carrots to the casserole for extra nutrition. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Chicken Casserole Works

This chicken cream casserole is truly a timeless classic that never goes out of style (and neither do we with our frequent requests for seconds!)

It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when everyone needs something hearty but quick; family gatherings where everyone gets excited about being together; holiday meals when extra effort is well worth it; or any random Tuesday evening when life feels too ordinary without some added comfort food magic.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Casserole

1. What type of chicken should I use for the chicken cream casserole?

You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Both work well, but chicken breasts may require a longer cooking time to ensure they are cooked through. If you prefer a more tender and juicy result, you can use chicken thighs as they are naturally more flavorful.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the cream sauce. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative, and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

3. How can I make the chicken cream casserole healthier?

To make the chicken cream casserole healthier, you can use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream, or a combination of both. You can also add more vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. This will not only increase the nutritional value but also add more flavor and texture to the casserole.

4. Can I freeze the chicken cream casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken cream casserole. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. Keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing and thawing.

5. Can I use canned cream of chicken soup instead of making the cream sauce from scratch?

While you can use canned cream of chicken soup as a shortcut, I recommend making the cream sauce from scratch for a fresher and more flavorful result. Canned soups often contain additives and preservatives, and making the sauce from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. However, if you are short on time, using canned soup can be a convenient alternative.

6. What can I serve with chicken cream casserole?

Chicken cream casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes. You can serve it with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables. For a more substantial meal, you can also serve it with mashed potatoes or rice. The creamy sauce in the casserole complements many side dishes, making it a versatile option for any meal.

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