Pin by Laurie Brown on casseroles | Cooked chicken recipes, Chicken recipes casserole, Leftover chicken recipes easy

why make this recipe

This leftover chicken casserole uses cooked chicken and simple pantry items. It is quick, warm, and filling. You can use cooked chicken you already have. It saves time and reduces food waste.

introduction

This easy dish mixes cooked chicken with vegetables, sauce, and cheese for a warm meal. If you want a similar baked idea, try the easy chicken cordon bleu casserole for another simple casserole twist.

how to make Leftover Chicken Casserole

Make the casserole in three main steps: mix, top, and bake. First combine the chicken, starch, vegetables, sauce, and half the cheese. Put the mix in a baking dish. Add the rest of the cheese and breadcrumbs on top. Bake until hot and bubbly.

Ingredients :

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 2 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup or cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
• 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Directions :

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, cooked rice or pasta (if using), soup, milk, thawed vegetables, half of the cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until even.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread it flat.
4. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and spread over the cheese.
5. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the top is lightly brown.
6. Let sit 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Leftover Chicken Casserole

Serve warm in large scoops. It goes well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. For a lighter meal, serve with a side of fresh tomatoes or cucumber slices.

how to store Leftover Chicken Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover the dish with foil or put portions in airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or heat single portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Leftover Chicken Casserole

• Use any cooked chicken you have: rotisserie, grilled, or baked.
• If you like more sauce, add a little extra milk or a splash of chicken broth.
• For crunch, add chopped nuts or extra breadcrumbs on top.
• Taste before baking and adjust salt and pepper.
• Use leftover rice or pasta to make the dish more filling.

variation (if any)

• Add cream cheese or sour cream for a richer sauce.
• Swap mixed vegetables for broccoli, peas, or corn.
• Use different cheeses like Swiss or Monterey Jack.
• Make it low-carb by skipping rice or pasta and adding more vegetables.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes. Thaw frozen cooked chicken before mixing. Cold chicken can add extra moisture.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use dairy-free milk, dairy-free cheese, and a dairy-free soup or homemade sauce to make it dairy-free.

Q: How do I know when it is done?
A: The casserole is done when it is hot and bubbling in the center and the top is lightly browned. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) if you check with a thermometer.

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