Sunshine Creamy Chicken Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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Welcome to a dish that brings a touch of sunshine to your table — our Sunshine Creamy Chicken Casserole. This comforting classic combines tender chicken with a creamy sauce and a crunchy topping, perfect for any family dinner or potluck.

Ingredients for Sunshine Creamy Chicken Casserole

Chicken breasts form the protein base of this dish. They're easy to cook and absorb flavor well, making them a versatile choice. Sour cream and cream cheese combine to create a luscious, creamy sauce that's the heart of the casserole. A bit of chicken broth helps keep the mixture moist and adds an extra layer of flavor. Lemon zest is the secret ingredient here, offering a fresh, tangy kick that cuts through the richness. The garlic powder gives a subtle depth without overpowering the other flavors. Cheddar cheese adds that crave-worthy gooeyness, while panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter provide a delightful crunch. Finally, fresh parsley brightens the dish both visually and in taste.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for an hour before cooking.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the creamy mixture.
  • Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smoother mix.
  • Use a rotisserie chicken for even quicker preparation.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. A side of crusty bread works wonders for soaking up the creamy sauce. Consider serving it with a light white wine or sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add an extra layer of juiciness and flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheese.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Sunshine Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's warming up, season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook until it's browned on both sides, roughly four minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and cut it into bite-sized pieces.

In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream cheese, chicken broth, lemon zest, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth. Toss in the chicken pieces and half of the cheddar cheese, stirring to combine everything well.

Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole, followed by the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even layer. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until it's golden and bubbly. Once out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley and serve it warm.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it great for weeknight dinners.
  • Rich, creamy flavor with a hint of lemon zest to brighten it up.
  • Cheesy goodness with a satisfying, crunchy breadcrumb topping.
  • Simple ingredients that pack a punch.
  • Customizable to suit your taste buds or dietary needs.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp garlic powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook chicken until browned on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and cut into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, mix sour cream, cream cheese, chicken broth, lemon zest, and garlic powder until smooth.
5. Add chicken pieces and half of the cheddar cheese to the mixture, stirring to combine.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish, spreading evenly.
7. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
8. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the casserole, followed by the breadcrumb mixture.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

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