Description
Cheesy Chicken Casserole with Garlic Toast
A rich and creamy chicken casserole topped with melted cheese, served with crispy garlic toast for dipping.
Ingredients
:
For the chicken casserole:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped parsley
For the garlic toast:
4 slices of bread
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt to taste
Instructions
:
Prepare the Chicken Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Make the Garlic Toast:
While the casserole is baking, spread butter on both sides of each bread slice.
Sprinkle with garlic powder, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the bread slices on both sides until golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Serve the cheesy chicken casserole hot with the crispy garlic toast on the side for dipping.
This creamy, cheesy chicken casserole is comforting and satisfying, with the perfect addition of garlic toast to scoop up all the deliciousness. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect casserole. First, ensure your chicken is fully cooked and shredded; a rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 or similar-sized baking dish. In your large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk first, whisking until smooth. This prevents lumps. Then, fold in the shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of cheese, and all seasonings. Transfer this mixture to your prepared dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for a perfectly melted, golden layer. Bake on the middle rack for 25-30 minutes.
For the garlic toast, prepare it in the last 10 minutes of the casserole’s bake time. Soften your butter for easy spreading. Combine the garlic powder and chopped parsley with the butter before spreading it on both sides of each bread slice. Toast in a skillet over medium heat, pressing gently, for 2-3 minutes per side until crisp. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking before garnishing with parsley and serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the richness. Consider a simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing or steamed green beans. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted carrots or garlic mashed potatoes. To elevate presentation, sprinkle extra fresh parsley or chopped chives over the casserole just before serving. If you have leftovers, the casserole reheats wonderfully in the oven or microwave for a quick lunch.
How-to Summary
To make Cheesy Chicken Casserole with Garlic Toast: Mix shredded chicken, soup, sour cream, half the cheese, milk, and seasonings. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. For the toast, spread herbed garlic butter on bread and pan-fry until crispy. Serve together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup? You can use cream of mushroom or celery soup. For a homemade version, make a simple white sauce (a roux with milk) and add chicken bouillon.
Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely. Add 1 cup of frozen peas, corn, or mixed vegetables to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition and color.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or a 350°F oven until warmed through. The toast is best made fresh.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Certainly. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend would work well. For a sharper flavor, try a mix of cheddar and parmesan.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not use uncooked chicken in the mixture; it must be pre-cooked and shredded. Second, do not overbake the casserole, as it can dry out—look for bubbles around the edges and melted cheese on top. Third, ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the garlic toast to prevent soggy, greasy bread. Finally, do not skip letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking; this allows the sauce to thicken slightly for perfect serving consistency.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken Casserole with Garlic Toast is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, savory flavors with a satisfying crispy element. It’s a versatile, family-friendly dish that is straightforward to prepare yet feels special. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can avoid common errors and customize it to your taste. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite. Enjoy the delicious, comforting results of your cooking!