Recipe: Chicken Casserole with a Crunchy Topping

Description

This creamy Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken, a rich and savory sauce, and a golden, buttery crunchy topping. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home — simple, hearty, and crowd-pleasing. The crispy topping adds the perfect contrast to the creamy filling, making every bite satisfying.

Recipe: Chicken Casserole with a Crunchy Topping

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 2 cups crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)

• ½ cup melted butter

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Filling:
   In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Assemble:
   Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

4. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle over the chicken mixture.

5. Bake:
   Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.

6. Serve:
   Garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm with green beans, salad, or mashed potatoes.

Tips

• Add frozen mixed vegetables or broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery for variation.

• Leftovers reheat beautifully — perfect for meal prep.