Loaded Chicken Casserole

Hey there, flavor cravers! Let’s chat about something truly game-changing for dinner—Loaded Chicken Casserole. If y’all haven’t tried this yet, picture a dish so stuffed with goodness, it basically just gave the classic casserole a mic drop moment. It’s everything you could dream of—savory, gooey, and loaded (ah, see what I did there?) with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and—I kid you not—melted cheese that practically begs you to dive in. Seriously, this baby is a feast for both your eyes and your taste buds.

So, what’s the deal with this recipe becoming THE ultimate family favorite in our home? Well, let me give you the scoop. It all started on a random Tuesday when I realized I had chicken for days and a fridge crammed with random veggies and cheese (because who doesn’t hoard cheese, right?). I tossed it all together on a whim, and folks, it just stuck. Like glue. My husband? He wolfed down three helpings before I even sat down. And you know it’s a hit when the kids voluntarily turn off their iPads for seconds. I mean, come on.

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Chicken Casserole

– It’s like a warm hug for your stomach, and who couldn’t use more hugs?
– Perfect for when you want all the cozy vibes with minimal effort (it’s okay, we all have those days).
– Bacon. Enough said.
– So easy, even my husband who once set cereal on fire can make it (no offense, love).
– Leftovers are non-existent because it’s that good. Like a magic trick in casserole form.

How to Make It

Alright, grab your apron and possibly a glass of wine (hey, I don’t judge). Let’s make some magic here:

So, you’ll start by preheating that oven to a steamy 375°F, ’cause nobody wants raw chicken in their life, right? Toss your chopped-up chicken pieces in a pan with a little sizzle of olive oil. Let them get all cozy and golden-brown.

While that’s happening, reach for your trusted baking dish and start assembling this beauty. Layer the chicken in the bottom like you’re setting the scene for an Oscar-winning drama. Next, scatter in your veggies like you’re decorating a garden—boom! Spinach, peppers, whatever. Go wild!

And here comes the cheesy tantrum—seriously LOAD it up. Also, bacon bits because they never hurt anyone except maybe a diet. Slide that bad boy into the oven and let it become what casserole dreams are made of. About 30 minutes later, cue the fanfare—a bubbling masterpiece ready to rescue any dreary dinner night.

Ingredient Notes

– Chicken: You want juicy, right? Don’t skimp on the oil sizzle. Overcooked chicken is a crime.
– Cheese: The glue that holds our lives together (arguably). Use the real stuff; skip the pre-shredded nonsense.
– Bacon: It’s bacon. Just don’t leave it out or our friendship is over.

Recipe Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook chicken in olive oil until brown.
3. Layer chicken in a baking dish.
4. Add veggies of choice on top.
5. Cover generously with cheese and bacon bits.
6. Bake for 30 minutes.

What to Serve It With

Tips & Mistakes

Storage Tips

Just kidding, like you’re gonna have any leftovers. But if by some miracle there are any stragglers, tuck them into an airtight container and they’ll keep in the fridge for a few days. Reheat and devour. Cold straight from the box? Been there, done that, and yes… still awesome.

Variations and Substitutions

Look, if your fridge is looking bare, improvise. I’ve tossed in some leftover broccoli, swapped spinach for kale (felt kinda healthy doing that), and even snuck in a smattering of hot sauce. The world is your oyster—or, you know, your casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions

Loaded Chicken Casserole

A hearty casserole loaded with tender chicken, cheese, vegetables, and a creamy sauce that's perfect for family dinners.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 2.5 cups cooked shredded chicken
• ▢ 1 cup sour cream full fat
• ▢ 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ▢ 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables thawed
• ▢ 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• ▢ 0.75 cup condensed cream of mushroom soup
• ▢ 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 2 cups crushed buttery crackers for topping

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well.
• Fold in the thawed mixed vegetables and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
• Sprinkle the top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and crushed buttery crackers.
• Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving. Perfect comfort food for busy weeknights!