simple chicken casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple chicken casserole recipe

I’ve been making this simple chicken casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The best part is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course, or use it as a side dish for a crowd. The origins of this recipe are unclear, but it’s likely a variation of traditional American casseroles from the mid-20th century.

The key to making a great casserole is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overmix the filling. I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are easy to find in most supermarkets.

The cooking technique is straightforward – simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish and bake until hot and bubbly. This recipe has been passed down through generations of home cooks, and I’m happy to share it with you today.

Simple Chicken Casserole

4.7 from 741 votes

A comforting and easy-to-make chicken casserole perfect for a family dinner. Tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce baked together for a hearty meal.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Base

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)

For the Sauce

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp paprika
salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Grease a medium-sized baking dish.
3In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables.
4Add the cream of chicken soup, milk, thyme, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5Stir until well combined.
6Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish.
7Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
9Continue baking uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
10Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
11This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
12Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Baking dish
Mixing bowl
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 a layer of cooked rice or pasta to make it more filling. For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

This simple chicken casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s perfect for a family gathering, a potluck, or a cozy night in.

You can easily double the recipe to feed a larger crowd, and it reheats well, making it great for meal prep. I often make a large batch and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy to my family, and I hope it does the same for yours.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Casserole

1. What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

The best type of chicken to use for this recipe is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. You can also use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by assembling the ingredients in a baking dish and refrigerating it overnight. Then, simply bake it as directed when you’re ready.

3. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry?

To prevent the casserole from becoming too dry, make sure to not overbake it. Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also add some extra moisture by mixing in some chopped onions or bell peppers.

4. Can I substitute different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute different types of cheese in this recipe. Some popular options include cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan.

5. How do I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

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