Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug? Look no further than this Easy Cheesy Chicken Casserole! Packed with tender chicken, creamy goodness, and a cheesy topping that will have your family begging for seconds, this recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that serves four, making it perfect for busy evenings or cozy gatherings. Dive into the recipe below and discover how simple it is to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add the cooked rice to the chicken mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring gently to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumbs across the surface of the casserole, creating a light, crispy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix and match your cheeses! While cheddar is a classic choice, adding mozzarella or pepper jack can give your casserole an exciting twist.
- Add Veggies: For a nutritious boost, consider adding steamed broccoli, peas, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds color and texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy topping, try mixing some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs before sprinkling it on top.
- Garnish for Flavor: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or sliced green onions right before serving can add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor to your casserole.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. It’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful Easy Cheesy Chicken Casserole!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
