Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners and is sure to please both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for breadcrumbs)

Timing

Making Cheesy Chicken Casserole takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
2. Add Topping: If using, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole. Add extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy finish.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy your Cheesy Chicken Casserole!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cheesy Chicken Casserole (per serving, based on 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	25g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	1g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Variations: Use your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach, for added nutrition.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a family favorite that everyone will love!