(Serves 6–8)
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for variety)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth (for added moisture)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional mix-ins: steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or spinach
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) or panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper . Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- If adding optional mix-ins like broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach, fold them in gently at this stage.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top for extra gooey goodness.
4. Add the Crispy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the casserole to create a golden, crispy topping.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown.
- For an extra cheesy finish, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end—but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Use Rotisserie Chicken : Save time by picking up a store-bought rotisserie chicken and shredding the meat. It’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for casseroles.
- Add Extra Veggies : Bulk up the dish with nutrient-packed veggies like spinach, broccoli, or peas. Steam or sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
- Make It Spicy : Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
- Storage and Reheating : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven for best results.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with:
- A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- A glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing pairing.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Casserole isn’t just another recipe—it’s a game-changer. With its creamy filling, crispy topping, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder people call it one of the greatest they’ve ever had. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or freezing portions for later, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to create a casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even the recipe). 🍗🌟
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