Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Chicken Casserole Recipe
Introduction to Chicken Casserole
Chicken casserole is one of those timeless dishes that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With its creamy texture, savory chicken, and deliciously melted cheese, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the world of chicken casserole and learn how to whip up this delightful dish that warms the heart.
A Personal Story Behind My Chicken Casserole Journey
Growing up, chicken casserole was a staple in my home. My mother would make it on chilly evenings, filling the house with the inviting aroma of baked pasta and cheese. It was our comfort food, a dish that brought us together as a family after long days. Now, as I share this recipe, I cherish those memories and hope to create new ones with my loved ones around the dinner table.
What Makes This Chicken Casserole Recipe Special?
What sets this chicken casserole apart is its rich and creamy sauce combined with tender pieces of chicken and pasta. The blend of cheeses creates a delightful gooeyness that makes every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can add vegetables to enhance its nutritional value or adjust the seasonings to cater to your taste. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction.
The Full Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups cooked pasta, drained (approximately 2 cups uncooked); penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Colby jack, Swiss, or a combination), with 1/2 cup reserved for topping
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. (Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.)
- Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly for about a minute.
- Slowly pour in the milk and sour cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 2 1/2 cups of grated cheese to the mixture, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Mix in the cooked chicken, pasta, salt, and red pepper flakes. Combine well, ensuring everything is coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish (9×13 inches) and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top for a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. (Tip: For a crispy topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.)
- Serve hot and enjoy your delightful chicken casserole!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Chicken Casserole
Chicken casserole is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it further with various serving suggestions. Consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For those looking to add more nutrition, feel free to toss in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the mix. You can also experiment with different cheese combinations or add herbs like thyme or parsley for an added flavor boost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Casserole
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and adds extra flavor.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use whole grain pasta, low-fat cheese, and add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
Can I freeze chicken casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just make sure to cover it tightly before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 6
Paula Deen’s Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, cut into small bite-sized pieces
- 4 cups cooked pasta, drained (approximately 2 cups uncooked); penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cups grated cheese (cheddar, Colby jack, Swiss, or a combination), with 1/2 cup reserved for topping
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. (Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.)
- Sprinkle flour over the onion and garlic, stirring constantly for about a minute.
- Slowly pour in the milk and sour cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 2 1/2 cups of grated cheese to the mixture, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Mix in the cooked chicken, pasta, salt, and red pepper flakes. Combine well, ensuring everything is coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish (9x13 inches) and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese on top for a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. (Tip: For a crispy topping, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.)
- Serve hot and enjoy your delightful chicken casserole!