This Rotisserie Chicken Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that’s super easy to make! With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, it’s a family favorite!
Honestly, who can resist a hearty meal that comes together in no time? I love using leftover rotisserie chicken to whip this up. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotisserie Chicken: This is the star of your casserole! It’s already cooked and packed with flavor. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, you can use leftover chicken or poach chicken breasts and shred them.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and depth. If you prefer healthier options, you can make your own or use a cream of mushroom soup. Dairy-free cream soups are great substitutes for those with lactose intolerance.
Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess. You can swap it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use a dairy-free yogurt if you’re looking for a vegan choice.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. You can mix it up by using Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. If avoiding dairy, try shredded vegan cheese.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: These add color and nutrition. You can use fresh veggies like broccoli or bell peppers if you prefer. Just remember to chop them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
How Do I Make Sure My Casserole Comes Out Perfectly Creamy?
Getting the right texture is crucial for a tasty casserole. Mixing your ingredients thoroughly is one key step. It ensures that the chicken, soup, and veggies combine evenly, resulting in a creamy base.
- Use a large mixing bowl to combine all your ingredients well before transferring them to the baking dish.
- Make sure the vegetables are well-distributed so every bite has a little bit of everything.
- Add the milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency. This way, it’s not too runny or dry.
And don’t rush the baking! Letting it bake to a golden brown gives it that nice crispy topping, while the insides stay warm and creamy.
How to Make Rotisserie Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful rotisserie chicken casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish before you can enjoy this warm and comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your casserole.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, frozen mixed vegetables, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it’s nicely blended.
3. Transfer to the Baking Dish:
Take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and pour your chicken mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so it cooks evenly in the oven.
4. Make the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. Stir until all the crackers are coated with butter. This will create a nice, crunchy topping for your casserole.
5. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken mixture that’s in the baking dish. This will provide a delicious crispy layer on top.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Put your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop it out and enjoy your warm, delicious rotisserie chicken casserole with family or friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Soup in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or even cream of celery soup. Just keep in mind that different soups may slightly alter the flavor of the casserole.
How Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
You can definitely prepare this casserole ahead of time! Assemble it as directed, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it’ll be cold from the fridge.
What Should I Do with Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply put it in the microwave or oven at a low temperature until warmed through. You might want to sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top and pop it back in the oven for a few minutes if you’d like some added creaminess!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in fresh spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for the frozen mixed vegetables. You can also add cooked pasta or rice for a heartier casserole. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if needed to ensure everything is heated through and cooked properly.
