Irresistible Creamy Chicken Salad Casserole Recipe

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by Aria

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The aroma of a bubbling creamy chicken salad casserole wafts through your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. Imagine the comforting blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a luscious sauce that wraps it all together—like a warm embrace on a chilly evening.

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This dish is not just dinner; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting family game night or simply craving that nostalgic comfort food from childhood, this creamy chicken salad casserole is sure to delight. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This creamy chicken salad casserole is incredibly easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavors meld beautifully in the oven, creating a dish that looks as good as it tastes
  • It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends
  • Plus, leftovers (if there are any) reheat like a dream!

I remember the first time I made this casserole for my family. The looks on their faces when they took that first bite were priceless—pure bliss!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.

  • Fresh Vegetables: Bell peppers and celery add crunch and color; opt for vibrant ones.

  • Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayo for creaminess; low-fat versions can be too watery.

  • Sour Cream: This adds tanginess; Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you’re feeling adventurous.

  • Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully and brings everything together.

  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder will elevate your flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Chicken Salad Casserole

How to Make Creamy Chicken Salad Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your trusty baking dish and spray it with nonstick cooking spray. Season those chicken breasts with salt and pepper for flavor.

Cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides—about 6-7 minutes each side. You want that lovely sear! Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before shredding.

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken with chopped fresh vegetables. Add mayonnaise and sour cream to create that rich sauce we all love. Mix well until everything is coated nicely.

Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Once done baking, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows everything to settle down so you don’t burn your tongue! Enjoy your creamy chicken salad casserole with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Each step of this process transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary and utterly comforting—a dish your family will request again and again!

You Must Know

  • Creamy Chicken Salad Casserole is a family favorite that combines convenience with comfort
  • This dish is perfect for busy weeknights and can be tailored to your taste preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys it
  • The creamy texture and savory flavors create a deliciously satisfying meal

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Sauté the chicken until golden brown, then mix it with the other ingredients before transferring everything to a baking dish for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients like chicken for turkey or add veggies such as broccoli or bell peppers. Experiment with seasonings to create your signature flavor profile!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For the best results, use cooked chicken leftovers to save time
  • Always taste before serving—seasoning can make or break this casserole!
  • Don’t skip on the cheese; it adds wonderful creaminess and flavor

Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and everyone eagerly awaited their first bite of this comforting dish.

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to your casserole.

How long should I bake the casserole?

Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Can I freeze leftovers of creamy chicken salad casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just ensure it’s in an airtight container and thaw before reheating.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Chicken Salad Casserole


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  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Creamy Chicken Salad Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce. This dish not only fills your home with a delightful aroma but also brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this casserole is easy to make and sure to be a hit. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved favorite!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown on both sides (6-7 minutes each side). Remove from heat and let cool slightly before shredding.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and mix well.
  4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

 

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