Cheesy Baked Chicken Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines tender chicken with creamy, cheesy goodness. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this simple yet delectable recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups cooked rice (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the spices.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the seasoned chicken evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the chopped onion and fresh parsley over the chicken.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Stir until well blended.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and onions in the baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover all the chicken.
- Add the Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the sauce-covered chicken.
- Top with Parmesan:
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the shredded cheeses.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Serve:
- If desired, serve the casserole over a bed of cooked rice for a complete meal.
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Cheesy Baked Chicken Casserole hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with your family and friends.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken pieces are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Swiss, for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy version.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in a teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the chicken for an aromatic flavor.
- Low-Carb: Skip the rice and serve the casserole with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables for a low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used in place of breasts. They will add a slightly different flavor and can be more moist.
2. How can I make this dish ahead of time? You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking.
3. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
4. What side dishes go well with this casserole? This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
5. Can I use a different type of soup? Yes, you can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
Cheesy Baked Chicken Casserole is a perfect dish for any occasion. Its creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults. Easy to prepare and versatile, this casserole will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this comforting and hearty meal with your loved ones!
