dump and go chicken casserole
Try this easy, comforting dump and go chicken casserole recipe for a quick family meal. Perfect for busy nights with minimal prep and maximum flavor!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- Cooked Chicken 2-3 cups: You can use shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or fresh chicken breast that’s been cooked and chopped. The key is to have tender, juicy chicken to add richness and protein to the casserole. Shredded chicken works best for an easy-to-eat, even-textured dish.
- Cream of Chicken Soup 1 can, 10.5 oz: This canned soup is a classic casserole base, adding creaminess and flavor. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider low-fat or fat-free versions, or swap it out for cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Sour Cream ½ cup: This ingredient adds a velvety texture and a hint of tanginess. It balances the richness of the cheese and cream of chicken soup, making every bite extra creamy. If you're looking to cut back on dairy, consider using plain Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture with added protein.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese 1 ½ cups: You can’t go wrong with cheddar for a rich, savory flavor. It melts beautifully and creates a gooey, cheesy topping. If you prefer a milder cheese, you could also experiment with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a lighter option.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables 1 ½ cups: Frozen veggies like peas, carrots, and corn are perfect for this dish. They save you prep time and add a pop of color and nutrients. You can also mix in fresh vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, just be sure to cook them first to reduce excess moisture.
- Breadcrumbs 1 cup: This is where the magic happens—breadcrumbs on top create a crispy, golden crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior. Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra-crunchy finish or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you're catering to dietary preferences.
- Garlic Powder 1 teaspoon: A simple ingredient that adds so much flavor. Garlic powder brings a subtle, savory note that enhances the entire casserole. It’s a pantry staple you can’t go without.
- Onion Powder 1 teaspoon: For a bit of sweet, onion flavor without the texture of actual onions, onion powder is perfect. It complements the garlic and adds depth to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: Never underestimate the power of a little salt and pepper to bring all the flavors together. Seasoning to taste ensures that every bite is perfectly balanced.
Optional Add-ins:
- Cooked Pasta 1 ½ cups: Want to make this casserole even more hearty? Add some cooked pasta like rotini or elbow macaroni to create a comforting pasta casserole. It’s an easy way to bulk up the dish without extra effort.
- Bacon Crumbles ¼ cup: For a savory, crispy touch, add crumbled bacon to the mix. It brings an irresistible smoky flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Hot Sauce or Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a little spice a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds an exciting kick. Don’t overdo it—just a touch for a subtle heat.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly for that golden, bubbling finish.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Take a 9x13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking and makes serving easier, ensuring you get every delicious bit out of the dish.
Step 3: Mix the Chicken and Creamy Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until the chicken is fully coated. For a lighter alternative, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt—it adds creaminess without sacrificing flavor.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
- Dump the frozen mixed vegetables into the bowl. No need to thaw them first; they’ll cook perfectly in the oven. Next, sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cheese
- Add shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture, folding it in gently. This step ensures every bite has that gooey, cheesy goodness. Save about half a cup of cheese to sprinkle on top later—this creates a melty, irresistible topping.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This helps everything cook uniformly, so no part of the casserole gets overdone.
Step 7: Add the Crunchy Topping
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs across the surface of the casserole. If you want extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs, which bake up beautifully golden. For a gluten-free option, substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
Step 8: Bake It to Perfection
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges. The cheese on top should be fully melted and slightly caramelized.
Step 9: Let It Rest
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to settle, making it easier to slice and serve while retaining its structure.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
- Scoop generous portions onto plates, ensuring each serving has a bit of that crunchy topping and creamy filling. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Vitamin A: 15% of daily value
- Vitamin C: 10% of daily value
- Calcium: 15% of daily value
- Iron: 10% of daily value