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Chicken Casserole

Hearty Chicken Casserole: Comfort Food for Cozy Nights

This Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and lush cheese—perfect for cozy family dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded, rotisserie chicken can be used for ease
  • 3 cups cooked pasta penne, cavatappi, or rigatoni
  • 2 tablespoons butter for sautéing
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons flour for thickening
  • 1 cup sour cream can substitute with dairy-free
  • 1 cup milk plant-based milk works well
  • 1 cup grated cheese such as Cheddar, Colby Jack, or Swiss
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • to taste salt and black pepper
Optional Additions
  • vegetables like spinach or mushrooms
  • gluten-free pasta

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the sautéed mixture, stir for 1 minute to form a roux.
  4. Gradually pour in 1 cup of milk while whisking, bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked chicken, 3 cups of cooked pasta, 1 cup of sour cream, and 1 cup of grated cheese. Toss gently to mix.
  6. Pour the thickened sauce into the chicken mixture, add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until coated.
  7. Scoop the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with another 1 cup of grated cheese.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Perfect for meal prepping; you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake when ready.

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