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

1. 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.
2. Step 2: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly and then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
3. 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.
4. 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.

Busy Night Chicken Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 142 reviews

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.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. 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.
2. Assemble in baking dish: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Add cheese topping: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.
4. 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.
5. 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