Crunchy Chicken Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner. With tender chicken, a creamy filling, and a crispy topping, this casserole is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this recipe combines simple ingredients to create a meal that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until well coated. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the cheese layer.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Notes
- Chicken Substitute: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe. You can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken.
- Cornflake Topping: If you don’t have cornflakes, you can substitute with crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a different type of crunch.
- Creaminess: For a creamier texture, you can add an extra 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese to the filling.
Variations
1. Spicy Crunchy Chicken Casserole
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or 1 diced jalapeño to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist.
2. Veggie-Packed Casserole
Stir in 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables or 1 cup chopped broccoli to add some color and nutrition to the dish.
3. Ranch Chicken Casserole
Add 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix to the chicken mixture for a tangy and herbaceous flavor that complements the creamy filling.
Serving Suggestions
- Green Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Dinner Rolls: Pair with buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted carrots or asparagus for added color and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Assemble it without baking, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Crunchy Chicken Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy filling, tender chicken, and crispy topping create a satisfying combination that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try it out and enjoy a cozy meal that’s sure to please!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!