Chicken Casserole

In our fast-paced world, comfort food holds a special place in our hearts, offering solace and satisfaction during demanding days or chilly evenings. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, the right dish can transform a simple meal into a cherished experience. Enter the cheesy chicken casserole—a quintessential comfort food that embodies warmth and indulgence. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also combines the delightful flavors of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a beloved choice for families everywhere.

Discover the warmth and joy of a comforting cheesy chicken casserole, a perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This delightful casserole features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese, all topped with a satisfying crunch from crushed crackers. Easy to prepare and versatile with endless variations, this dish not only satisfies hunger but also creates cherished memories around the dinner table. Dive into the recipe and make this beloved comfort food a staple in your home.

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) for topping

2 tablespoons melted butter

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Add Vegetables and Rice: Fold in the frozen mixed vegetables and cooked rice. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.

Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Top with Crackers: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter, then sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping. Add additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.

Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and golden on top.

Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 40 min | 6 servings