Indulge in the warmth and flavor of this timeless chicken casserole. A perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and hearty vegetables, this dish is a comforting classic that will satisfy your cravings. Elevate your weeknight dinner with this easy-to-follow recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season the chicken cubes with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Veggies:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and begin to brown.
- Add the peas and carrots to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
- Add the sautéed vegetables and chicken to the soup mixture and stir to combine.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy this comforting dish with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Chicken Casserole:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
- Customize Your Casserole: Add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, corn, or spinach. You can also experiment with different cheeses, like Gruyère or Swiss.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water to the soup mixture before baking.
- Reheating: To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
With its simple preparation and irresistible flavor, this chicken casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.