Chicken Casserole is one of the most popular casseroles in the country, and it can be made in so many different ways. Chicken is such a versatile meat that goes with just about anything including sweet, sour, and savory flavors. Most of the time, casseroles are just made with leftovers that we happen to have in the fridge so you know the whole family will love what you make. A comforting casserole on a cold night is always welcome.
Researchers believe that we (humans) started eating casseroles back in the 4th century BC because of the casserole dishes and pottery found on a Greek island. It was in 1250 that the first casserole recipe was written. It was for macaroni and cheese. In 1787, Thomas Jefferson brought a pasta machine home, and his daughter made the first casserole in America. But it was in 1866 when Elmire Jolicoeur got credit for the first casserole.
What is a casserole?
A proper casserole is any meal prepared in a casserole dish and baked in the oven. Considered a comfort food, it typically has layers or a combination of protein, veggies, and a starchy binder such as crackers (I like Ritz crackers), oats, eggs, rice, mashed potatoes, or flour. Some are made with some kind of canned soup like cream of chicken soup. You can also use chicken broth, cream cheese, or shredded cheese.
Leftover chicken casserole
Whenever you have leftovers, you can combine them to make a new casserole. You can make a complete meal in one dish with rotisserie chicken, cheese, veggies, and milk for a creamy texture. My favorite recipes are made from leftover family dinners made on busy weeknights. Toss everything in a casserole dish with some veggies, sauce, and top with cracker crumbs. Bake until golden brown and serve with a large bowl of side salad.
Chicken bacon ranch casserole with potatoes
The best chicken casserole recipe is chicken bacon ranch casserole with potatoes. It is an easy dish that the whole family loves and I can have it on the dinner table in less than an hour. All you need is cooked chicken breasts, potatoes, ranch dressing, cheese, bacon, green onions, garlic, and seasoning. I use sharp cheddar cheese and pepper jack, but you can use your favorites. Mix together in a casserole dish or baking dish and bake for about 50 minutes.
Chicken casserole recipes
- Chicken pot pie with store-bought rotisserie chicken and diced mixed veggies.
- Million-dollar chicken casserole with cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and Ritz crackers.
- Creamy chicken casserole with shredded chicken, and a creamy sauce of monterey jack cheese, cream of mushroom soup, melted butter, and saltine crackers.
- Easy chicken casserole with sour cream and a chicken mixture of rotisserie chicken, leftover cornbread, green beans, and cream of chicken soup.
- Buffalo chicken casserole with cooked rice, hot sauce, cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and diced celery.
- Cheesy casserole with cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and monterey jack cheese, fresh parsley, and fresh basil.
- Cheesy chicken and noodles made with wide egg noodles, frozen peas, homemade cream, and your favorite cheese.
- Italian chicken casserole made with your favorite spaghetti sauce, rotisserie chicken, and parmesan cheese.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a casserole considered a comfort food?
Although different people have their own version of what comfort food is, most people see comfort foods as easy recipes that are high in fat and carbs. It is the fullness you get from the carbs and the flavor from the fat that gives you the feeling of comfort because you feel satisfied after eating it. A casserole is all of that.
How do I store leftovers?
But, if you have leftovers that you cannot finish right away, put them in an airtight container or a bowl covered in plastic wrap, and they can stay in the fridge for up to three days. Or you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for several months. Just make sure it is completely cool before storing. For the best results, thaw overnight.
Why are American servings different?
You may not even realize that the servings you get at restaurants and fast food joints are larger than they are in other countries. That is because food is cheaper in the United States and restaurants like to give customers more food to keep them coming back. This might be obvious to you when the person taking your order asks if you want to "supersize" it.
Tips and Tricks
- For extra flavor, add garlic. Even a meal that is a bit bland will come alive with a bit of garlic.
- Be sure to thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor.
- Check out my recipe card at the bottom of the page for the nutrition, calories, and fat content.
- All you need for a great recipe is chicken, cheese, and some creamy sauce.
- For a gluten free chicken casserole, use oats or rice instead of wheat crackers.
- You can throw anything in a casserole to make it your own. Adding your favorite ingredients can make a plain casserole into a delicious meal.
- Always make sure your chicken is cooked to 165 degrees F.
