Step 1: Prepare Ingredients (10 minutes)
- Cook the Chicken: If you’re using raw chicken, cook it beforehand by boiling, baking, or sautéing it until it reaches 165°F. Rotisserie or leftover chicken is also great for this recipe.
- Chop Vegetables: Dice the carrots, celery, and onion. These add flavor and texture to the casserole.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce (5 minutes)
- Combine Cream of Chicken Soup and Sour Cream: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Add chicken broth, garlic powder, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the sauce is creamy and well-blended.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole (5 minutes)
- Add Chicken and Veggies: Add the shredded or diced chicken, diced carrots, celery, onions, frozen peas, and uncooked pasta (if using) into the sauce mixture. Stir everything until well-coated.
- Fold in Cheese: Gently fold in 3/4 of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining cheese for the topping.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Add the Topping (2 minutes)
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly coated.
- Top the Casserole: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole, followed by the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole (25-30 minutes)
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you want extra color, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
- Let it Rest: Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole firm up a bit for easier serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve Warm: Scoop out portions of the casserole and enjoy with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a full meal.
- Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Dish Meal: It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a comforting, filling meal with minimal cleanup.
- Customizable: Add in any favorite veggies or swap out ingredients based on your taste or what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or easy reheating.
Tips and Variations
- Add Extra Veggies: Broccoli, green beans, or mushrooms are delicious additions for more variety.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping for a gluten-free version.
- Try Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere for different flavor profiles.
This Chicken Casserole is a satisfying and cozy dish that combines creamy textures and savory flavors in every bite. It’s a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again!