Introducing a delightful culinary creation: Chicken Casserole, a comforting one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a hearty, satisfying dinner. With its savory blend of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and comforting macaroni, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details and explore how to prepare this scrumptious dish step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 frying chicken
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 block Velveeta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor
Instructions:
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Preparation:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
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Cooking the Chicken:
- Place the frying chicken in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the chicken simmer for about 30 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked and tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Remove the bones and skin, then chop the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
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Preparing the Casserole Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chopped chicken, chicken broth, and cubed Velveeta cheese. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. For added flavor, feel free to incorporate other seasonings according to your preference, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
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Assembling and Baking:
- Transfer the prepared casserole mixture into the greased baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the macaroni is fully cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
- Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 475 per serving
- Fat Content: 26.1 grams
- Saturated Fat Content: 7.3 grams
- Cholesterol Content: 110.9 milligrams
- Sodium Content: 826.4 milligrams
- Carbohydrate Content: 25.6 grams
- Fiber Content: 1.1 grams
- Sugar Content: 1.9 grams
- Protein Content: 32.3 grams
Recipe Notes:
- This Chicken Casserole recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
- To make this dish even more flavorful, consider adding diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the casserole mixture before baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, this Chicken Casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this hearty dish is guaranteed to satisfy appetites and bring smiles to the faces of everyone at the table. Enjoy!
