Creamy Cheesy Chicken Casserole
Description
This Creamy Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic dish that has been loved for generations. It’s a comforting and hearty meal that pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad and egg noodles on the side, making it a fantastic option for family dinners. The rich and creamy texture, combined with the melty cheddar cheese, elevates this recipe into a delicious treat that kids adore, especially when they mix the tender chicken and noodles together. One day, I may just prepare it that way right from the start, allowing for a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Recipe Category
- One Dish Meal
Keywords
Chicken Breast, Chicken, Poultry, Meat, Kid Friendly, Inexpensive, Under 4 Hours
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Butter |
| 2 cups | Margarine |
| 8 oz | Sour cream |
| 2-3 | Boneless chicken breasts |
| 1 cup | Butter |
| 2 cups | Margarine |
| 8 oz | Cheddar cheese |
| 1 | Seasoning blend (to taste) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 785.7 |
| Total Fat | 60.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 31 g |
| Cholesterol | 213.1 mg |
| Sodium | 1237.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 14.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g |
| Sugars | 2.2 g |
| Protein | 46.3 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken: Begin by boiling the boneless chicken breasts in a pot of salted water until fully cooked. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and allow it to cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
-
Sauté the Seasoning: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or margarine over medium heat. Add your choice of seasoning blend (this could be a mix of herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning) and sauté until fragrant and the mixture has softened, typically about 2-3 minutes.
-
Combine the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sautéed seasoning mixture, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Once these ingredients are well combined, gently fold in the shredded chicken until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the creamy mixture.
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Season and Prepare for Baking: Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper to suit your preference. Once seasoned, transfer the chicken and cheese mixture into a greased 13 x 9 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
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Prepare the Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, crush your choice of crackers (such as buttery round crackers or saltines) and mix them with the remaining melted butter or margarine until well combined and crumbly.
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Add the Topping: Sprinkle the cracker mixture generously over the top of the chicken casserole, ensuring an even distribution to create a delightful crispy topping when baked.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, place the casserole in the oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed warm and is perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
This Creamy Cheesy Chicken Casserole is sure to become a family favorite, balancing the rich flavors of chicken and cheese with the crunchy topping, making it a delightful dish that pleases both children and adults alike. The combination of creamy textures and savory seasonings makes for a heartwarming meal that can be enjoyed any night of the week. Serve it alongside a crisp salad and some egg noodles, and you’ll have a wholesome dinner that your loved ones will eagerly anticipate.
