I have a special place in my heart for Baked Cheesy Chicken Casserole. It’s like a warm hug in a dish! This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this casserole; it was during a chilly fall afternoon. I had just gotten home from a long day at work and wanted to whip up something hearty that would make my house smell incredible. As the cheese melted and the chicken sizzled, I knew I had struck gold!
What I love about this casserole is not just the gooey, cheesy goodness, but also how versatile it is. You can customize it with whatever veggies you have lying around or throw in a different protein if chicken isn’t your jam. It’s basically a blank canvas for your culinary creations. So let’s get into this scrumptious recipe!
What’s in Baked Cheesy Chicken Casserole?
Chicken:** The star of the show! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for a real time-saver.
Cream of Chicken Soup:** This gives the casserole a creamy, rich base. You can go for the classic Campbell’s or opt for a healthier, low-sodium version.
Pasta:** I love using rotini for its ability to hold on to the cheesy sauce, but any kind of pasta will work. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be great substitutes too if needed!
Cheddar Cheese:** Because who doesn’t love cheese? I usually go for sharp cheddar for more flavor, but feel free to mix in your favorite varieties.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables:** A fantastic way to add color and nutrition without any chopping! Carrots, peas, and corn work beautifully.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder:** These little gems help enhance the flavor of the entire dish.
Salt and Pepper:** Always to taste! These seasonings make all the difference.
Is Baked Cheesy Chicken Casserole Good for You?
Absolutely, but like everything, moderation is key! This casserole provides protein from the chicken, vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, and carbs from the pasta, giving you a wholesome meal.
Chicken: A lean protein source that helps build muscle and keep you full.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A quick way to pack in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, they are super convenient!
Just be mindful of the sodium content if you’re using canned soup or processed ingredients. Opt for low-sodium versions when possible and don’t hesitate to add more veggies!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked pasta (Rotini or any favorite)
– 2 cups cooked, diced chicken (like rotisserie or poached)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots)
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
*Servings: 4-6*
How to Make Baked Cheesy Chicken Casserole?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cream of chicken soup, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until everything is well coated.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkling it generously over the top. Don’t skimp on that cheesy goodness!
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil (optional, to prevent the cheese from browning too much) and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the cheese is beautifully melted.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and dig in!
Cheesy Tips and Twists!
– Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas if you want to make it veggie-friendly.
– You can add spices and herbs like paprika or Italian seasoning to give it a flavor boost!
– Serve it alongside a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Is your mouth watering yet? I just can’t contain my excitement for you to try this recipe. It’s always a hit at my gatherings, and I’ve no doubt it will be a hit at yours, too. So roll up your sleeves, toss those ingredients together, and let your home fill with that delightful cheesy aroma. And when you do make this casserole, I’d love to hear your thoughts or any fun twists you added! Happy cooking!
