Busy Night Chicken Casserole Recipe
Introduction
Busy Night Chicken Casserole is a quick and comforting dish perfect for hectic evenings. Combining simple ingredients like cooked chicken, rice, and vegetables, it comes together easily for a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, cooked rice, thawed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Step 2: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly and then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Step 3: Bake uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Tips & Variations
- For added flavor, stir in a teaspoon of dried herbs such as thyme or parsley before baking.
- Use different vegetables like broccoli, peas, or carrots based on your preference or what’s on hand.
- Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a twist.
- Add a crunchy topping by sprinkling breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used. Just steam or sauté them lightly before mixing to ensure they cook fully during baking.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
PrintBusy Night Chicken Casserole Recipe
A quick and comforting Busy Night Chicken Casserole perfect for easy weeknight dinners. This dish combines tender cooked chicken, creamy soup, rice, veggies, and melted cheddar cheese baked to bubbly perfection.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken and Rice
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups cooked rice
Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
Other Ingredients
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Assemble in baking dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then serve warm as a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor.
- Feel free to use fresh vegetables chopped small instead of frozen if available.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top along with the cheese before baking.
Keywords: chicken casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, baked chicken dish, weeknight meal
