Are you craving a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and irresistibly gooey cheese in one spectacular casserole? Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this crowd-pleasing recipe that promises to be the star of your dining table! Packed with flavor, nutrition, and pure comfort, this Cheesy Chicken Vegetable Casserole is about to become your new family favorite that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, broccoli florets, and sliced carrots. Make sure the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the chicken.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir gently until all the ingredients are coated with the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chicken and vegetable mixture, ensuring every bite has cheesy goodness.
- In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up during baking. Mix until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
- Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer in the casserole dish. This will create a deliciously crunchy topping.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set slightly, making it easier to serve.
- Serve the Cheesy Chicken Vegetable Casserole warm, and enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
Tips
- Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
- For maximum vegetable nutrition, ensure broccoli and carrots are cut into uniform, bite-sized pieces.
- Don't skip the breadcrumb topping - it adds a crucial crispy texture that elevates the entire dish.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a healthier version, use low-fat cheese and cream of chicken soup.
- Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like cauliflower or peas.
- If you want extra crunch, toast the breadcrumbs slightly before adding them to the top.
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking and the best results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg
