Creamy chicken casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This recipe takes the classic to the next level, focusing on fresh ingredients and a few simple techniques to create a truly exceptional casserole. Forget bland and boring; get ready for creamy, dreamy deliciousness!
What Makes This Creamy Chicken Casserole Recipe Special?
This recipe distinguishes itself through its emphasis on fresh herbs, a richer sauce, and the perfect balance of creamy textures and savory flavors. We're not just throwing together leftover chicken and canned soup; we're building layers of taste that will impress even the most discerning palates. We'll use fresh ingredients wherever possible, ensuring a depth of flavor you won't find in other recipes.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
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For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
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For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked egg noodles or rice (I prefer egg noodles for the classic creamy chicken casserole feel)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken cubes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until browned on all sides and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Set aside.
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Make the Creamy Sauce: Melt butter in the same skillet. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).
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Add Flavor: Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chives, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Assemble the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles/rice, cooked chicken, and creamy sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Bake & Cheese: Top with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
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Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes for easier serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it's shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the casserole.
What kind of noodles are best for this recipe?
Egg noodles are traditional and create a lovely creamy texture. However, you can also use other types of pasta, such as rotini or shells. Rice is also a great alternative, especially for those seeking a gluten-free option.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you're ready to bake it.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of heavy cream and use a combination of heavy cream and milk for a lighter sauce. You could also use whole wheat egg noodles or brown rice for added fiber.
What are some variations of this recipe?
Get creative! Add different vegetables like broccoli, peas, or mushrooms. Experiment with various cheeses, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack. You can even add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
This creamy chicken casserole recipe is a delightful journey into comfort food perfection. Enjoy!
