Company Chicken Casserole
There’s something special about a dish that brings people together, one that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. My Company Chicken Casserole is just that kind of dish. It’s a warm, creamy comfort food that’s perfect for both intimate family dinners and entertaining guests. Growing up, this casserole was a staple at our family table whenever we had company over. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures, and while it’s a simple recipe, it’s sure to impress. Plus, you can enjoy it with or without broccoli, making it versatile for different tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Company Chicken Casserole is a breeze to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. It’s budget-friendly, yet rich in flavor, offering a satisfying meal that feels indulgent. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and seasoned stuffing creates a harmonious blend that’s comforting and delicious every time.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet
- Large casserole dish or 9 x 13” glass pan
- Mixing bowls
- Wire whisk
- Fork
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 wedges of onion
- 4 cups Pepperidge Farms Herb seasoned stuffing mix
- 1 cube butter (1/2 cup)
- 1 can Cream of Chicken soup
- 1 pint sour cream
- 8 oz frozen broccoli cuts – thawed (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts, chicken broth, garlic, and onion in a skillet. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium. Cover and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with a fork, setting it aside. Reserve the broth, ensuring it measures about 1 cup. If necessary, add canned broth to make up the difference.
- Melt the butter and pour it over the stuffing mix in a bowl. Use a fork to blend the mixture.
- Spread half of the stuffing and butter mixture in the bottom of a large casserole dish or 9 x 13” pan.
- In a separate bowl, blend the Cream of Chicken soup, sour cream, and reserved broth using a wire whisk.
- Layer the shredded chicken over the stuffing in the dish. If you’re using broccoli, spread it over the chicken.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and broccoli layer, then top with the remaining stuffing mixture.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding it for the best texture.
- Thaw the broccoli completely before adding it to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.
- For a crunchy topping, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking.
Additional Tips and Variations
Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite vegetables, such as peas or carrots, for added nutrition and color. You can also substitute the Cream of Chicken soup with Cream of Mushroom for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This casserole provides a balanced meal with protein from the chicken, carbohydrates from the stuffing, and optional fiber from the broccoli, making it a wholesome choice for dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
This Company Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, it’s bound to bring comfort and smiles to the table. I’d love to hear about your experience making this recipe, so feel free to share your thoughts and any variations you tried!