If you’re craving comfort food, this Classic Chicken Casserole is your answer. It's hearty, easy to prepare, and perfect for those cozy nights when you want something warm and satisfying. With a creamy base and crunchy topping, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Cooked chicken is the star of this dish, providing protein and substance. Feel free to use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken from the store. Frozen peas and diced carrots add color and sweetness, balancing the savory elements. Sliced mushrooms lend an earthiness and depth of flavor. The cream of chicken soup creates a rich, creamy base, while sour cream adds tanginess. Shredded cheddar cheese contributes a gooey, melty finish. Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper enhance the overall flavor profile. For the topping, buttery crackers crushed and mixed with melted butter provide a delicious, crunchy contrast.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed green beans to add a bit of freshness to the meal. A crusty bread roll on the side is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a comforting drink pairing, a light white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon complements the flavors without overpowering them.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) — this gives it plenty of time to reach the right temperature as you prepare the casserole. In a large mixing bowl, you'll want to combine the shredded chicken, peas, carrots, mushrooms, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s evenly combined; make sure each ingredient is coated well with the creamy mixture.
Next, take a 9x13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Pour the chicken mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. This will ensure even cooking and an appealing presentation.
For the topping, grab a small bowl and mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. This might be my favorite part — it adds such a nice crunch to the dish. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. Now it's ready for the oven.
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect golden brown topping and for everything to be heated through. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning your tongue on all this deliciousness.
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