Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner idea that the whole family will love? This Easy Chicken Crouton Casserole recipe is sure to hit the spot! Packed with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy croutons, this comfort food casserole is a breeze to make. Whether you're preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving up a potluck dish, this casserole delivers flavor and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You'll Need
To make this family-friendly dinner, gather these simple and affordable ingredients for a no-fuss meal you’ll make again and again.
For the Casserole:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can of cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 3 cups seasoned croutons
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added comfort-food vibes)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a light layer of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is nice and creamy.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the chicken and veggie mixture evenly into your greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the seasoned croutons evenly over the top of the casserole. If you want an added layer of indulgence, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the croutons for a gooey topping.
Step 4: Add the Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the crouton topping. This step helps the croutons crisp up and turn golden brown during baking.
Step 5: Bake It to Perfection
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the croutons are golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Customizing Your Chicken Crouton Casserole
1. Add More Veggies
Want to pack in more nutrition? Swap out the basic frozen mix for broccoli florets, chopped spinach, or sautéed mushrooms. This will give your casserole a wholesome twist without compromising its creamy, satisfying texture.
2. Use Different Cheeses
Not a fan of cheddar? Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Parmesan. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor!
3. Go Gluten-Free
For a gluten-free twist, use gluten-free croutons and check that your cream soup is also gluten-free. You’ll enjoy the same hearty flavors with none of the worry.
4. Spice It Up
For those who love a little heat, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs perfectly with a crisp, mixed green salad and a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls. For a cozy dinner, enjoy it with roasted vegetables or a simple soup starter. Leftovers also make a great quick lunch—just reheat and dig in!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This Easy Chicken Crouton Casserole recipe checks all the boxes when it comes to comfort food. Creamy, satisfying, and versatile, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a reliable, family-friendly dinner. With its crispy crouton topping and flavorful filling, this casserole is destined to become a go-to favorite in your meal rotation.
Save this recipe for the next time you’re in the mood for an easy casserole that satisfies every craving!
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