This is our supreme Cheesey Chicken Casserole recipe! If you’re in search of an rich, cheesy and tasty dish that’s simple to cook and cook, this is the ideal recipe for you. If you’re cooking for a busy evening, a relaxing dinner party, or making for the week ahead the delicious baked chicken casserole with a cheesy flavor is sure to become a household most-loved dish.
In this post, we’ll take you through the best method to prepare the cheesy chicken casserole that includes the best cooking tips, substitutions for ingredients storage guidelines, and suggestions for serving that will help prepare the perfect dish each time.
Introduction
Cheesy Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food serving tender chicken, a creamy sauce, melting cheese and perfect cooked rice or pasta in a delicious dish. This traditional baking casserole is a tribute to Southern traditional cooking and is adored for its delicious flavor as well as its simplicity and ability to feed a large crowd.
What is it that makes this cheesecake chicken bake distinguish itself?
- Simple and quick Ideal for meals on the go.
- Customizable – Use different cheeses, pasta, or veggies.
- Family-friendly A meal that everyone will enjoy.
Let’s take a look at the most delicious chicken casserole with cheese recipe and help you make dinnertime effortless!
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
To prepare this creamy and delicious chicken casserole You’ll require:
Main Ingredients:
- Three cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini (or egg noodles)
- 1. Can (10.5 Oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Half teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 Cup broccoli in florets (for an all-vegetarian casserole)
- Half teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some spice)
- 1 cup bacon bits cooked (for an extra smoky flavor)
Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons of butter that has been melted
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Casserole – Step by Step
Step1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package until it is al at a good al dente. Drain the pasta and place it aside.
Step2: Preheat the Oven
The oven should be heated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (190degC) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step3: Mix the Casserole Base
in a bowl mix together the soup of chicken with sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese Parmesan cheese garlic powder, onion powder and paprika salt and black pepper. Stir well until smooth.
Step4: Add Chicken and Pasta
Incorporate the chicken shreds along with cooked pasta and mix until thoroughly coated. If you are using bacon, broccoli or other ingredients include them in this step.
Step5: Assemble the Casserole
Place the mix in the baking dish you have prepared Spread it out equally.
Step6: Add Cheese and Topping
Add the remainder of 1 c. of cheese onto the cheese. Mix panko breadcrumbs and melting butter and sprinkle it over the cheese.
Step7: Bake to Perfection
Bake at least about 25-30 mins to bake until it is hot and brown on the top.
Step8: Serve and Enjoy!
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes prior serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy and delicious chicken bake with your favorite side dishes!
Helpful Tips for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken It is time-saving and gives extra flavor.
- Create it gluten-free Use breadcrumbs and pasta that are gluten-free.
- To add extra creaminess Add 1/2 cup of cream cheese into the sauce.
- Spice it up Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it an extra spice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Casserole
- Don’t overcook the Pasta Maintain it relatively hard (al dente) to ensure it doesn’t become soft and mushy.
- Layer the cheese Mixing cheese into the topping and sauce gives an ooey texture.
- Make use of a sharp Cheddar Stronger cheeses enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Enjoy this dish of cheesy chicken with:
- Garlic bread A crunch side for soaking up that rich sauce.
- Side Salad – A refreshing alternative to the rich and delicious casserole.
- Steamed vegetables Green beans, or Roasted Brussels sprouts are a great accompaniment to the dish.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is high in calcium and protein and is a delicious comfort food.
Dietary Data (per portion):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Calcium: 20% DV
Storage and Leftovers for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Refrigeration:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in your refrigerator up to 4-days.
Freezing:
Freeze in a safe dish that can be frozen until three months. Thaw for a night or two in the refrigerator prior to heating.
Reheating:
- Oven Wrap foil around the oven and cook for 20 minutes at 350 degrees F (175degC) for 20 minutes.
- Microwaves Individual portions are heated in 30 second intervals until they are warmed up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
1. Can I prepare cheesy chicken casserole in advance?
Yes! Put the casserole together and cover it with a lid. Refrigerate for up to 24-hours prior to baking.
2. Which cheese is the best fit to use in this dish?
Sharp cheddar is the best choice However, you can also add cheese, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese for a variety.
3. Do I have to use rice in place of pasta?
Absolutely! Change pasta with two cups cooked rice to create an entirely different texture.
4. How can I make this dish lower in calories?
Make use of light low-fat sourcream, cheese as well as whole-wheat pasta to reduce calories.
Related Recipes for Cheesy Chicken Lovers
Explore more delicious dinner ideas:
- Scallion Chicken Recipe – Easy & Delicious Dinner Idea
- Cheesy Beef and Noodles Skillet – Easy Family Dinner
- Scallion Chicken Recipe – Easy & Delicious Dinner Idea
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Best Easy Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe Ever
Description
Welcome to the ultimate Cheesy Chicken Casserole recipe! If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dinner that’s easy to prepare, this is the perfect dish for you. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy family gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this cheesy baked chicken casserole will become a household favorite.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the best way to make cheesy chicken casserole, including expert cooking tips, ingredient substitutions, storage instructions, and serving suggestions to help you create the perfect dish every time.
Ingredients
ScaleMain Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or egg noodles)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup broccoli florets (for a veggie-packed casserole)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little spice)
- 1 cup cooked bacon bits (for extra flavor)
Topping:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step1: Cook the Pasta Boil the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step2: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step3: Mix the Casserole Base In a large bowl, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1 cup cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until smooth.
Step4: Add Chicken and Pasta Fold in the shredded chicken and cooked pasta, mixing until evenly coated. If using broccoli, bacon, or extra ingredients, add them at this stage.
Step5: Assemble the Casserole Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step6: Add Cheese and Topping Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Then, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
Step7: Bake to Perfection Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Step8: Serve and Enjoy! Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, creamy, and comforting chicken bake with your favorite sides!
Notes
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – Saves time and adds extra flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- For Extra Creaminess – Add ½ cup of cream cheese to the sauce.
- Spice it Up – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
