Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Casserole is not just a meal, it's a warm hug on a plate that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a luxuriously creamy sauce that will have everyone at the table asking for more. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends with minimal effort, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 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 shredded cooked chicken, broccoli florets, and sliced carrots. Mix the vegetables and chicken thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Add the cream of chicken soup to the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly, ensuring the soup acts as a creamy binding agent.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently to incorporate the seasonings throughout the casserole.
- Transfer the chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface to create a melty, golden cheese layer.
- Evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer, which will create a crispy, golden-brown topping when baked.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- 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 as a complete meal, accompanied by a side salad or steamed rice if desired.
Tips
- Use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- For a crispier breadcrumb topping, mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
- Ensure your vegetables are cut to similar sizes to guarantee even cooking.
- Let the casserole rest after baking to allow the sauce to set and make serving easier.
- For added nutrition, experiment with different vegetables like cauliflower or peas.
- If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and cream of chicken soup.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Customize the seasoning with herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 85mg
