This is our most delicious Cheesey Chicken Casserole recipe! If you’re in search of an delicious, creamy and delicious meal that is easy to cook it’s the perfect recipe for you. It doesn’t matter if you’re cooking for busy evening, a relaxing dinner party, or preparation for the week the delicious baked chicken casserole with a cheesy flavor is sure to become a family favourite.
In this post, we’ll take you through the best method to cook delicious chicken casserole with cheese that includes the best cooking tips, substitutions for ingredients storage guidelines, and suggestions for serving that will help make the perfect recipe every time.
Introduction
Cheesy Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines succulent chicken, creamy sauce, melting cheese, and perfect cooked rice or pasta in one delicious meal. This traditional baking casserole is a tribute to Southern food preparation and is beloved by its flavorful, rich taste simple, easy to prepare, and capacity to feed a large crowd.
What is it that makes this delicious chicken bake with a cheesy flavor distinguish itself?
- Easy and quick perfect for meals on the go.
- Customizable – Use different cheeses, pasta, or veggies.
- Family-friendly A meal that everyone will enjoy.
Let’s get into the most delicious chicken casserole with cheese recipe and help you make dinnertime easy!
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
For this delicious and creamy chicken casserole For this dish, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- Three 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 of 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 paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 Cup broccoli leaves (for an all-vegetarian casserole)
- 1 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 melting butter
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Casserole – Step by Step
Step1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according instructions on the packaging until it is al al dente. Drain the pasta and place it aside.
Step2: Preheat the Oven
The oven should be heated to 350degF (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’re using bacon, broccoli or other ingredients include them in this step.
Step5: Assemble the Casserole
Place the mix in the baking dish that you prepared and spread it equally.
Step6: Add Cheese and Topping
Add the remainder of one cup cheddar 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 and until casserole has become hot and brown on the top.
Step8: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes prior serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy and delicious chicken bake along with your favorite side dish!
Helpful Tips for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken It saves time and also adds flavor.
- Make it gluten-free Use breadcrumbs and pasta that are gluten-free.
- To add extra creaminess Add 1/2 cup cream cheese to the sauce.
- Spice it up – Add a dash 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 creates an ooey texture.
- Make use of a sharp Cheddar Stronger cheese increases the flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Serve this dish of cheesy chicken with:
- Garlic bread A crunch side in order to absorb the rich sauce.
- Side Salad – A refreshing alternative to the rich and delicious casserole.
- Steamed vegetables Green beans, or roast Brussels sprouts can be a good choice to complement the dish.
Nutritional Information
This recipe is a good source of calcium and protein as well as a satisfying comfort food.
Nutrient 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 four days.
Freezing:
Freeze in a safe dish that can be frozen that is freezer-safe for three months. Thaw for a night or two in the refrigerator prior to heating.
Reheating:
- Oven Place foil over the top and bake it in the oven at 350 degrees F (175degC) for 20 minutes.
- Microwaves Heating individual pieces in 30 second intervals until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Cheesy Chicken Casserole
1. Do I have the ability to make cheesy Chicken casserole in advance?
Yes! Make the casserole and cover it with a lid. Refrigerate until 24-hours prior to baking.
2. What is the best cheese to use in this dish?
Sharp cheddar is a great choice however, you can also mix in mozzarella Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese for a variety.
3. What can I do with rice in place of pasta?
Absolutely! Switch pasta for two cups cooked rice to create an entirely different texture.
4. How can I make this casserole less in calories?
Make use of light dairy products like sour cream, cheese with reduced fat along with 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 IdeaPrint
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.
