Cheesy Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pieces of chicken with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This dish is not only incredibly delicious but also straightforward to make, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. The combination of hearty chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful seasonings creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, and chopped onion. Mix well.
- Season the Mixture: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and comforting Cheesy Chicken Casserole!
