Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole cooks evenly from the start.

Prepare the Chicken:

• If you’re using boneless chicken breasts, season them with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
• You can either cook the chicken breasts in a skillet for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked or use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces for an even texture.

Cook the Veggies:

• In the same skillet, add a bit of olive oil, and sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
• Add your veggies—whether it’s carrots, peas, or corn—cook for another 3-4 minutes. This step brings out the natural sweetness and flavor of the vegetables.

Assemble the Casserole:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed veggies, cooked pasta, and any leftover gravy or broth you’ve prepared. Mix in a generous amount of grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend) for that gooey, cheesy finish.
• Pour the creamy sauce (made from cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings) into the bowl and stir until everything is evenly coated.
• Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish.
• Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle a final layer of cheese on top of the casserole. This gives it that irresistible golden crust when baked.

Bake to Perfection:

• Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are slightly crispy and the cheese is melted.
• Let It Rest: After you pull it out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Pro Tip:

• For an extra crispy topping, try adding some breadcrumbs to the top before baking. You can even mix in a little melted butter for added richness.
• This step-by-step guide ensures that every bite of your chicken casserole is flavorful and satisfying. It's a fantastic dish for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you need a comforting meal that everyone will love.