Company Chicken Casserole

 

Company Chicken Casserole

This creamy, comforting chicken casserole is perfect for serving guests (hence the name!). It's rich, flavorful, and easy to make ahead.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie works well)
• 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or penne pasta, cooked and drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or homemade)
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or more sour cream)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1 cup crushed butter crackers (like Ritz) or breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven

   • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Mix the Filling

   • In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and spices. Mix well.

3. Assemble the Casserole

   • Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

4. Prepare the Topping

   • In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

5. Bake

   • Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

6. Serve & Enjoy

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• It also freezes well—just thaw overnight before baking.

Would you like any variations, like a Moroccan-inspired version with spices?