Description
Creamy Baked Chicken Casserole
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt cream cheese with heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
3. Add Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, black pepper, and oregano, mixing well.
4. In the baking dish, spread the cooked chicken evenly.
5. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and top with shredded mozzarella.
6. Bake for 20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure your chicken is fully cooked and diced into bite-sized pieces. Soften the cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and thoroughly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the heavy cream and softened cream cheese. Whisk constantly until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano until fully incorporated. Layer the diced chicken evenly in the prepared dish. Slowly pour the warm sauce over the chicken, ensuring it seeps into all the gaps. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese in a uniform layer over the top. Bake on the middle rack.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and creamy casserole pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. For a classic comfort food plate, serve it alongside steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp garden salad. To soak up the delicious sauce, offer crusty garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a bed of simple pasta like angel hair or egg noodles. For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook and dice chicken. Make sauce by melting cream cheese into heavy cream, then stirring in Parmesan and seasonings. Layer chicken in a greased dish, pour sauce over it, and top with mozzarella. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw chicken instead of pre-cooked?
It is not recommended. Using raw chicken risks it not cooking through in the short baking time, leading to food safety issues. Always use fully cooked chicken.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Avoid milk, as it can curdle or make the sauce too thin.
Can I freeze this baked casserole?
Yes. Cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese directly from the fridge, which will not blend smoothly into the sauce and will create lumps.
- Overbaking the casserole, which can cause the creamy sauce to break and become oily. Remove it as soon as the cheese is melted and golden.
- Not greasing the baking dish, leading to difficult cleanup and stuck-on cheese.
- Forgetting to let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly for easier serving.
Conclusion
This Creamy Baked Chicken Casserole is the ultimate reliable recipe for a satisfying, family-friendly dinner. With its simple technique, forgiving nature, and decadent flavor, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the tips provided, you can effortlessly create a comforting dish that feels both special and familiar. Enjoy the delicious results of your easy kitchen effort.