Growing up, I loved Sundays when our home smelled like chicken casserole. It was special to sit together and enjoy a warm meal. My mom made a delicious dish with just a few ingredients.
She had a favorite recipe, but I found many more. Adding broccoli or creamy sauces made it even better. Chicken casserole is great for any time, like a busy weeknight or a big family event.
I’m excited to share my favorite chicken casserole recipes. They’re easy to make and I’ll show you how. Let’s make our homes cozy and our hearts happy with these dishes!
Delicious Chicken Casserole for Family Dinners
Gathering at the dinner table is special. A delicious chicken casserole brings warmth. It’s made with chicken, rice, and creamy soups. This makes a meal that’s tasty and easy to make.
The chicken and rice casserole is a favorite. It has tender chicken, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce. It’s ready in 30 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes. It serves 8 people, perfect for families.
Chicken casseroles have different calories. The Chicken and Swiss Stuffing Bake has 247 calories per serving. The Jalapeno Popper Chicken Casserole has 701 calories. Fat content varies from 7g to 83g per serving.
When making your chicken casserole, try new things. Using a rotisserie chicken saves 30 minutes of prep time. This makes a great casserole that can be made ahead and frozen. Casseroles are a favorite for 60% of family dinners.
Easy Chicken Casserole Varieties to Try
I love finding easy chicken casserole recipes. They make family meals fun and simple. You can try cheesy enchilada casseroles or chicken and broccoli bakes. These recipes use common ingredients for a tasty meal.
Using a rotisserie chicken saves a lot of time. It only takes ten minutes to prepare. Then, it cooks in thirty to forty minutes. This is great for busy weeknights when you need to feed six people.
Here’s a quick look at a delightful chicken casserole recipe that I often turn to:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chopped cooked chicken | 4½ cups |
| Cream cheese | 4 oz |
| Cottage cheese | 1 cup |
| Sour cream | ½ cup |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 (10.5 oz) can |
| Garlic powder | ¼ tsp |
| Onion powder | ¼ tsp |
| Crushed Ritz crackers | 1 sleeve |
| Melted butter | 5 Tbsp |
After mixing the ingredients, I bake it at 350ºF. Freezing it, baked or unbaked, works well. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
There are many ways to serve it. I like it over rice or noodles with salads and steamed veggies. You can also add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a twist.
Best Chicken Casserole Recipes for Every Occasion
Chicken casseroles are a favorite for family meals. They’re great for any event, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Each recipe uses fresh ingredients and tasty flavors, pleasing everyone’s taste buds.
In the South, casseroles are a big hit at family and church events. Southern cooks often have many 9×13 baking dishes. This shows how common casseroles are in the South. Many of my favorite recipes can be made in under an hour, perfect for busy nights.
Chicken casseroles come in many flavors, with over 42 recipes. They often use rotisserie chicken for quick prep. Frozen veggies are also common, making them easy to use.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a quick favorite, ready in about 30 minutes. It’s great for social events because you can prep parts ahead. Most casseroles have cheese, like cheddar and mozzarella, which makes them extra tasty.
For families with kids, Buffalo Chicken Enchiladas are a hit. They’re fun and easy to eat. Add-ons like crispy onions or panko breadcrumbs make them even better.
There are 21 amazing chicken casserole recipes. They serve 6 to 12 people, perfect for gatherings. With cooking times under an hour, they’re easy and comforting to make.
Homemade Chicken Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
I love making homemade chicken casserole. It’s a filling meal that’s easy to make. This guide will show you how to make a tasty casserole from scratch. It’s perfect for family gatherings.
This casserole is simple and uses pantry staples. Here’s what you need:
- 8 cups shredded chicken (about 2 rotisserie chickens)
- 2 cans of condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup sour cream (240 g)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (approximately 225 g)
- 2 sleeves of Ritz crackers, lightly crushed
- 4 tablespoons melted butter (56 g)
- 1.5 teaspoons onion powder
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
The whole process takes about 1 hour. This includes getting ready and baking. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Add onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Put the mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Stir until the crackers are coated.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the chicken mixture. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes. The casserole should bubble and the crackers should be lightly browned.
- Let the casserole cool for 15-20 minutes. This lets the flavors mix together.
This casserole serves about six people. It’s perfect for family dinners. It has less than 800 calories per serving and lots of protein. You can also add veggies like broccoli or spinach for more nutrients.
Make this comforting dish with the chicken casserole recipes. Enjoy a warm meal filled with love.
Simple Chicken Casserole for Busy Weeknights
Life gets busy, and weeknights can be tough. A simple chicken casserole is a great dinner choice. It’s quick, tasty, and easy to make.
Using frozen veggies is a smart move. They save time and add nutrition. I also use pantry items like soups for a creamy texture.
Cooking time is short, just 30 to 45 minutes. This fits perfectly into my busy schedule. Plus, these casseroles feed many, making them great for family dinners.
Here’s a quick overview of a simple chicken casserole recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts | 3 (about 1 lb) |
| Instant White Rice (Minute Rice) | 3 ½ cups |
| Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Condensed Cream of Celery Soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Condensed French Onion Soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
Mix the ingredients and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Leftovers can be reheated easily.
Simple chicken casseroles are a big win for busy nights. They’re easy to make and always a hit with my family.
Healthy Chicken Casserole Recipes
If you’re looking for healthy chicken casserole recipes, you’re in the right place. I love making meals with lean proteins, fresh veggies, and whole grains. These casseroles are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
I often use broccoli in my casseroles. You can use fresh or frozen broccoli. With just 10 ingredients, I make a dish that’s both colorful and tasty. The mix of pasta, broccoli, and cheese is a hit with my family.
Here’s a simple break down of the recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Uncooked Pasta | 8 oz |
| Fresh Broccoli | 1 lb (approximately 1 large head) |
| Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups (8 oz) |
| Milk | 1.5 cups |
| Chicken or Vegetable Stock | 1 cup |
| Minced Garlic | 4 cloves |
| Flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Cooking Fat (Butter or Olive Oil) | 2 tablespoons |
| Optional Fresh Herbs | 4 types (parsley, basil, rosemary, thyme) |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon (plus additional to taste) |
This casserole is great because I can change it up. I can use whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, or quinoa. Each serving has 24g of protein, 6g of fiber, and not too many calories.
These meals are quick to make, under 20 minutes. They can be stored for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 months. This means I have more time to enjoy dinner with my family.
Comfort Food Chicken Casserole: Why It’s the Perfect Meal
Comfort food chicken casserole makes me think of warmth and family. It’s perfect for cold months. It’s great for a busy weeknight when everyone is hungry.
This dish is easy to make for a big group. It uses chicken, cheese, and veggies. These ingredients make the dish comforting and full of flavor.
It takes 20 minutes to prepare and an hour to bake. The baking time lets all the flavors mix well. It serves four, perfect for sharing stories and laughter.
Chicken casseroles can be customized with ranch dressing or broccoli. Each ingredient adds to the dish’s heartiness. It’s also not too heavy, with about 400 calories per serving.
Chicken casseroles bring families together. They’re great for cold nights or special events. Sharing a casserole makes every bite special.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken Tenderloins | 1 pound |
| Broccoli Crowns | 1½ cups |
| Sliced Mushrooms | 1 cup |
| Sharp Cheddar Cheese | ¼ cup |
| Italian Blend Cheese | ½ cup |
| Ranch Dressing | ¼ cup |
| Chicken Broth | ¼ cup |
Chicken Casserole Recipes Featuring Creamy Sauces
There’s something wonderful about a creamy chicken casserole. These dishes have rich sauces that make flavors pop. They create a cozy meal perfect for any event. My top picks include tasty ingredients for a memorable meal.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Casserole
- 2-3 cups shredded cooked chicken (or rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 cups milk (32 ounces)
- 12 ounces egg noodles (about ¾ of a standard bag)
- 1.5 cups breadcrumbs (from 4 to 5 slices of bread)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or a homemade substitute)
- Fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions
- Cheese (for an extra creamy finish, consider adding 1-2 cups)
Preparation Steps for a Perfect Creamy Casserole
- Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, milk, cream of chicken soup, and any vegetables.
- Add the cooked noodles to the mixture, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish and top with breadcrumbs and cheese.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
This creamy chicken casserole feeds about six people. Each serving has about 522 calories. It’s great for big gatherings or making leftovers. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days or freeze it for up to three months. It’s a favorite for parties and potlucks. Enjoy the creamy goodness that everyone loves!
| Nutritional Information | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Calories | 522 kcal |
| Total Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Total Protein | 23 g |
| Total Fat | 23 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 116 mg |
| Sodium | 240 mg |
| Potassium | 453 mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Sugars | 9 g |
| Vitamin A | 689 IU |
| Calcium | 244 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
Quick Chicken Casserole: Ready in Under 45 Minutes
In today’s fast world, quick chicken casseroles are a great dinner choice. They are quick to make and taste amazing. For example, Marry Me Chicken is ready in just 30 minutes.
These recipes are easy to make and about 70% can be prepped ahead. This saves time on busy nights. You can use rotisserie chicken to make things even quicker.
Quick chicken casseroles are loved for their speed and taste. Chicken and rice are a popular mix. Cheese is used in about 60% of recipes, making them creamy and comforting.
Here are some tips for making quick chicken casseroles:
- Use frozen vegetables for easy adding.
- Try unique toppings like crispy onions or Doritos.
- Use special ingredients like pimiento cheese for gourmet flavors.
These casseroles are perfect for family meals and follow Southern cooking traditions. They are easy to make and don’t require a lot of recipes.
| Recipe Components | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked/Shredded Chicken | 2 cups |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 10.75 oz |
| Sour Cream | 1 cup |
| Half and Half | 1.25 cups |
| Mixed Vegetables | 1 cup |
| Cooked/Drained Egg Noodles | 12 oz |
| Shredded Mozzarella Cheese | 0.5 cups |
| Shredded Parmesan Cheese | 0.5 cups |
| French’s Fried Onions | 6 oz |
Quick chicken casseroles are tasty and easy to make. With the right ingredients and planning, you can enjoy great meals without spending a lot of time.
Cheesy Chicken Casserole that Will Impress Your Guests
Hosting a meal is special when you serve a cheesy chicken casserole. It’s a dish that impresses everyone. Its rich flavors and smell make it the star of your meal.
Cheese Variations for Your Casserole
Try different cheeses to make your casserole even better. Shredded cheddar adds a sharp taste. Mozzarella makes it stretchy. Mixing cheeses creates a unique flavor.
Other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or pimiento cheese can also make your dish special. Here are some great cheese options:
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Cheddar | Rich, sharp | Classic cheesy chicken casserole |
| Mozzarella | Mild, creamy | Deliciously gooey topping |
| Monterey Jack | Buttery, smooth | Great for blending flavors |
| Pimiento Cheese | Spicy, zesty | Northern twist on Southern classic |
Tips for Making Cheese-Topped Casseroles
Getting the cheese topping right can make your casserole amazing. Here are some tips for a golden, bubbly top:
- Layer cheese evenly throughout the casserole for uniform melting.
- Combine different cheese varieties to enhance taste and texture.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or panko before baking.
- Broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end for a beautiful golden finish.
This cheesy dish is sure to make your meal unforgettable. Each serving has about 406 calories. It’s filling but not too heavy. This casserole will impress your guests and make them feel welcome.
Cooking Tips for Chicken Casserole Recipes
When you start making chicken casserole, some tips can make it amazing. Start with sautéed onions, celery, and bell peppers. They are like the “Holy Trinity” of Southern cooking.
These veggies add a lot of flavor. They make your casserole smell great and taste even better.
Another key tip is to cook the chicken right. Use a temperature of 375°F for 20-25 minutes. This makes sure the chicken is safe to eat at 165°F.
If you use shredded chicken, it cooks faster. You can save 20-30 minutes. Always check your seasonings before baking. It makes a big difference.
Now, let’s talk about storing your casserole. Cooked chicken should be eaten in 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in airtight containers.
This way, you can enjoy it later without losing flavor or texture. Remember these tips to make your chicken casserole recipes always a hit!
