If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table, this cheesy chicken casserole is a perfect choice. Easy to prepare, it combines tender chicken, creamy sauces, and a golden, cheesy topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, making clean-up a breeze!
This recipe for an Easy Cheesy Chicken Casserole will quickly become a family favorite. With layers of flavor from sautéed vegetables, succulent chicken, and gooey melted cheese, it brings together all the elements of a hearty meal in a single dish. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole is sure to impress.
A Comforting Cheesy Chicken Casserole to Satisfy Your Cravings
This cheesy chicken casserole is a delightful choice for anyone craving a warm and fulfilling meal. It features tender chunks of chicken enveloped in a creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy layer of cheese.
The addition of broccoli not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color, making it visually appealing. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish can quickly become a staple in your home.
Its appeal lies not just in its taste, but also in the ease of preparation, allowing you to enjoy the cooking process without the stress of elaborate steps.
Ingredients That Create Comfort
The beauty of this Easy Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe is in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
You start with cooked chicken and rice or pasta, providing a hearty foundation. Fresh or frozen broccoli florets bring freshness and nutrition, while the cream of chicken soup adds richness to the mix.
Of course, the star of the show is the generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese, which gives this casserole its luscious character. A sprinkle of seasoned breadcrumbs on top offers a delightful crunch, balancing the creaminess beneath.
Preparation Made Simple
One of the key advantages of this casserole is its straightforward preparation process. Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, rice or pasta, and broccoli with the creamy soup and milk. Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor, making the mixture an enjoyable blend.
Once everything is well-combined, transfer it to a greased baking dish, ready for the oven.
The Baking Process
Baking is where the magic happens, transforming the ingredients into a bubbling, golden delight. After pouring the mixture into the baking dish, top it off with the remaining cheddar cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs.
A drizzle of melted butter over the breadcrumbs ensures a beautifully crisp topping once baked.
Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. The anticipation builds as the kitchen fills with the rich aroma of cheese and baked chicken.
Serving Suggestions
After removing the casserole from the oven, allow it to cool slightly before serving. This period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Pair your cheesy chicken casserole with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy it with garlic bread to complement the rich flavors.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that can bring people together around the dinner table, making it a delightful highlight of the evening.
Nutritional Information
This casserole offers a balance of macronutrients, making it suitable for a satisfying meal. With approximately 350 calories per serving, it provides a good source of protein, with around 25 grams.
The inclusion of broccoli adds to its nutritional profile, offering fiber and essential vitamins.
Whether you’re serving a family of six or just enjoying a tasty leftover meal, this casserole fits well within a balanced diet while delivering comforting flavors.
A Comforting Cheesy Chicken Casserole to Satisfy Your Cravings
This cheesy chicken casserole is rich and satisfying, featuring tender chunks of chicken, a creamy sauce, and a crispy cheese topping. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out and is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice or pasta
- 1 cup broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs 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 chicken, rice or pasta, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and half of the cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper, mixing until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, followed by the seasoned breadcrumbs. Drizzle the melted butter over the breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy chicken casserole with a side salad or garlic bread.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
