Creamy Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and lots of cheese, all baked to perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With a combination of simple ingredients, this dish delivers a rich, cheesy flavor that everyone will love.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken and Cheese Casserole
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Combine with Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the sauce mixture and stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
- Add the Topping (Optional): In a small bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Creamy Chicken and Cheese Casserole
- Cook Chicken Ahead: Save time by using rotisserie chicken or cooking the chicken breasts ahead of time. You can also use leftover chicken for this recipe.
- Mix Cheeses: Use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella, or substitute with your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss for a different flavor.
- Add Crunch: The crushed Ritz crackers and butter topping adds a delicious crunch. You can also use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs if you prefer.
Recipe Variations
- Broccoli Chicken Casserole: Add 2 cups of steamed broccoli florets to the casserole for extra veggies.
- Spicy Chicken Casserole: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Chicken Casserole: Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon for added flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Rice or Pasta: Pair with cooked rice or pasta to make the meal even more filling.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
Creamy Chicken and Cheese Casserole is a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and lots of melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe for busy nights. It’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and simple enough to make any day of the week. Give this delicious casserole a try and enjoy the comforting flavors in every bite!
This Creamy Chicken and Cheese Casserole is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you add vegetables, spice it up, or keep it classic, this dish is sure to be a hit. Share it with friends and family, and watch it become a favorite at your dinner table!
