chicken cheese casserole recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best chicken cheese casserole recipe

I’ve been making this chicken cheese casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish has its roots in classic American comfort food, with a mix of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.

I love that it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit various tastes. My kids adore it, and it’s often requested for family gatherings and special occasions.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s relatively healthy, thanks to the lean protein from the chicken and the use of reduced-fat cheese. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish, depending on your needs.

When I’m short on time, this recipe is a lifesaver because it’s quick to prepare and cooks in under an hour. I’ve even made it for potlucks and dinner parties, where it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

The secret to its success lies in the simple yet effective technique of layering the ingredients in a baking dish before baking until golden brown. It may not look like much, but trust me when I say that this humble casserole packs a flavor punch that’ll leave everyone wanting more.

Chicken Cheese Casserole

4.9 from 502 votes

A comforting and flavorful casserole featuring tender chicken, a creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
salt
pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dry mustard

For the Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F.
2Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
5Remove from heat and set aside.
6In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
7Add flour and whisk to form a roux.
8Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
9Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
10Add cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and dry mustard.
11Stir until cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
12Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
13In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with the cheese sauce.
14Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
15In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
16Sprinkle the topping evenly over the chicken and cheese mixture in the baking dish.
17Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
18Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
19This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Oven
Saucepan
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 105mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 40g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the casserole for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Cheese Casserole Works

This chicken cheese casserole recipe is a staple in our household because it’s easy to make, versatile, and delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.

You can also serve it at family gatherings or special occasions where everyone will love it. For storage ideas, consider freezing individual portions for up to 3 months or refrigerating leftovers for up to 5 days.

When reheating leftovers, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. Serving suggestions include pairing it with steamed vegetables or salad for a balanced meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cheese Casserole

Q: What type of cheese should I use?

I recommend using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella for the best flavor. You can also experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or feta if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q: How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy breadcrumbs, make sure they’re evenly distributed across the top of the casserole before baking.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

You can use either boneless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: What if I don’t have any fresh herbs like parsley or thyme?

You can omit the fresh herbs altogether or substitute them with dried herbs if you prefer.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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