Cheddar Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole layered with cheesy flavors, crunchy crackers, and fresh green onions, perfect for family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer chicken for 25 minutes.
- Drain broth and set aside.
- Cool chicken and tear into chunks.
- Cook macaroni in water until al dente.
- Drain macaroni and place in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over macaroni.
- Top with torn chicken pieces.
- Thin cream of chicken soup with 2/3 cup of broth from drained chicken for each can of soup.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle crushed Cheddar cheese crackers on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the soup mixture. If you want to spice things up, mix in some diced jalapeños or add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. To save time, use rotisserie chicken for shredded chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Cheddar Chicken Casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Salad From The Lazarus Chintz Room for a delightful lunch the next day. For a complete dinner experience, consider serving some crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For quicker reheating, you can use the microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheddar Chicken Casserole contains roughly 535 calories, with 23g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 980mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breast, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. You may need to adjust the simmering time to ensure it's cooked through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
What are some good toppings for this casserole?
In addition to crushed Cheddar cheese crackers, you can experiment with toppings like fried onions, breadcrumbs, or even a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor. Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives can also add a nice touch of color and freshness.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).