Delicious and Easy Southern Style Chicken Casserole Recipe
Greetings, food enthusiasts! Welcome to my Southern-style Chicken Casserole recipe article. If you’re looking for a mouth-watering and hearty meal, you’ve come to the right place.
There’s nothing quite like Southern-style cuisine to warm the soul on a chilly evening or to satisfy hunger after a long day of work. My chicken casserole recipe captures the essence of Southern hospitality with bold flavors mixed together in one baking dish.
My recipe combines the classic Southern ingredients that we all love – juicy chicken breasts, creamy cheese, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. The casserole is then topped with crunchy Ritz crackers that add a delightful texture that will keep you coming back for more.
In this article, I’ll share with you all the details of how to make this delicious dish. By following my easy step-by-step instructions, you can prepare a dish that will definitely impress your family and friends.
So let’s get started! Don’t delay – it’s time to whip up the best Southern-style chicken casserole you’ve ever tasted. Get your apron on and let’s hit the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a hearty and satisfying meal that’s full of classic Southern flavors, then look no further than this Southern Style Chicken Casserole Recipe. This dish is a staple in any Southern kitchen, and for good reason. Not only is it quick and easy to make, but it’s also packed with delicious ingredients that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
One of the star ingredients in this recipe is the chicken breast. This versatile ingredient is used in countless Southern dishes, from fried chicken to chicken stew. It’s no wonder that it’s a staple in this casserole recipe too! The chicken breasts are cooked until they’re tender and juicy, and then combined with cream of chicken soup, sour cream, rice, and flavorful seasonings to create a creamy and comforting base for the casserole.
But what really sets this dish apart is the addition of diced tomatoes and green chilies. These ingredients give the casserole a tangy kick that perfectly balances out the creaminess of the sauce. And let’s not forget about the cheese! This recipe calls for both cheddar cheese and Velveeta cheese, which creates a gooey and melty layer on top of the casserole that ties everything together.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or something to feed a crowd at your next gathering, this Southern Style Chicken Casserole Recipe is sure to please everyone. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious taste of the South!
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to prepare this southern style chicken casserole recipe:
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 2 cans (10.75 ounce each) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter, divided
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cans (10-ounce each) diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained
Cheese Mixture
- 8 oz grated cheddar cheese
- 8 oz grated Velveeta cheese
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For Toppings
- 1 sleeve crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Don’t worry about making a long grocery list since most of these ingredients can already be found in your pantry. However, make sure to double-check your pantry stocks to avoid going back and forth to the grocery store.
The Recipe How-To
Before diving into cooking our Southern Style Chicken Casserole, make sure you have your ingredients ready to go. We’ll be using a variety of flavors and textures here, including the creaminess of sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and Velveeta cheese along with the tangy zing of diced tomatoes and green chilies.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups ^chicken breast (cooked and shredded)
- 1 can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp ^unsalted butter
- 1 cup water
- 1 ^chicken bouillon cube
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cans diced tomatoes and green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
- 30 Ritz crackers, crumbled
Here’s how we’ll put these ingredients together:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. While the oven is preheating, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in ½ chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
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Add in 2 cans diced tomatoes and green chilies to the pot and cook for around five minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
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In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of sour cream, 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup, 8 ounces of Velveeta cheese (cut into cubes), and the tomato mixture from Step 3.
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Add in 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded) and stir everything together.
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Take your baking dish and begin to layer: start with a layer of 30 Ritz crackers, crumbled, then add a layer of the chicken mixture. Continue doing this until you have used up all the chicken mixture.
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Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
Enjoy your savory and comforting Southern Style Chicken Casserole!
Substitutions and Variations
I understand that not everyone may have access to all the ingredients for this mouth-watering southern-style chicken casserole recipe. Fear not! I have some substitutions and variations that you can try out for a delightful twist on the original.
For the cheese lovers out there, you can switch up the cheddar and Velveeta cheese for other variants such as Colby, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack. The same goes for the canned tomatoes and green chilies – if you find them too spicy or unavailable, you could substitute with plain diced tomatoes or even tomato sauce.
For a vegetarian alternative, swap out the chicken breasts with tofu or other plant-based meat substitutes. You can also remove the cream of chicken soup entirely, making it fully vegan.
If you want to add an element of Tex-Mex to your dish, consider using taco seasoning mix instead of just salt and pepper. Alternatively, add black beans, corn, and guacamole or replace the rice with quinoa for a healthy option.
If you’re looking for a shortcut, try using ready-cooked rotisserie chicken rather than cooking your own chicken breasts from scratch.
In summary, with these simple substitutions and variations, you can turn this classic southern-style chicken casserole recipe into something entirely new and exciting without compromising its authentic taste. Feel free to experiment and discover your very own perfect variation!
Serving and Pairing
Now that your Southern Style Chicken Casserole is hot and ready, it’s time to serve it up! This hearty dish makes for a delicious meal on its own, but I have some pairing suggestions that can elevate your dining experience.
First of all, let me remind you that this casserole is packed with flavor and texture, thanks to the creamy chicken and rice base, the melted Cheddar cheese and the crunchy Ritz cracker topping. This means you’ll want to pair it with something simple that can complement all these elements without stealing the show.
One classic side option for Southern dishes is cornbread or cornbread dressing, which adds a sweet, buttery note that contrasts nicely with the savory casserole. You can try making my recipe for Southern cornbread from scratch, or use a boxed mix if you’re short on time. Alternatively, if you want something lighter and fresher, consider serving a side salad made with crisp greens, sliced tomatoes and cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette that cuts through the richness of the casserole.
Another way to balance out the creaminess of the casserole is by adding some texture and spice to your plate. For example, you could whip up a batch of crispy fried okra or crispy fried green tomatoes as a crunchy side dish that can add some Southern flair to your meal. Or you could serve some hot sauce or Tabasco on the side for those who like it extra spicy.
If you’re serving this casserole as part of a larger feast or potluck, you might also want to pair it with some other classic Southern dishes such as mashed potatoes (with or without gravy), collard greens, black-eyed peas or mac and cheese. These sides are filling and comforting in their own right and can make your guests feel like they’re at a true Southern feast.
Finally, let’s not forget about beverages! For an authentic Southern meal, you could serve sweet iced tea (with lemon if desired) or cold beer. If you’re in the mood for something fancier, try a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, or a light red like Pinot Noir that can complement the flavors of the casserole without overpowering it.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair your Southern Style Chicken Casserole, it’s sure to be a hit!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
It’s always a great idea to make casseroles ahead of time, especially on busy weeknights. This Southern style chicken casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator. Simply remove from the fridge when it’s time to bake, let the dish sit at room temperature while preheating the oven, then bake as directed.
If you have leftovers, this chicken casserole can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or a preheated oven for a few minutes until heated through.
For longer storage, this casserole can also be frozen. Once assembled and baked, allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and placing in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. However, freezing may alter the texture slightly once thawed and reheated.
When ready to serve, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This casserole can be reheated either in the oven or microwave. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through (about 20-30 minutes), or microwave individual servings for a few minutes until heated thoroughly.
Remember that proper storage is crucial to food safety, so make sure your leftovers are stored in airtight containers and eaten promptly. With these easy tips on make-ahead, storing and reheating your Southern style chicken casserole dish, you can enjoy this delicious meal any time of day!
Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve the best southern-style chicken casserole, I have a few tips that will elevate your dish to a whole new level. These tips are tried and true, and will ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.
1. Use quality cheese
A key ingredient in a chicken casserole is the cheese. Make sure you use high-quality cheddar cheese and Velveeta cheese to give your casserole the rich flavor it deserves.
2. Cook the chicken just right
It’s important to cook the chicken just right, so it’s juicy and tender. Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cooking them for 20-25 minutes at 350°F. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, make sure to warm it up before adding into the casserole.
3. Don’t skimp on seasoning
Seasoning is essential for bringing out the flavors in your casserole. Add in some onion powder, garlic powder or chopped onions for a more savory taste. Also, don’t forget the salt, pepper and paprika to give it that southern-style flair.
4. Mix well and spread evenly
To ensure the ingredients are mixed thoroughly, use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir everything together before pouring it into a baking dish. Pro tip: spread out each layer of ingredient evenly rather than just heaping everything in one place.
5. Add some crunch with Ritz crackers
Adding crunched up Ritz crackers on top of your casserole can add a sweet crunchiness that’s irresistible! Just mix butter with Ritz cracker crumbs and cover your dish with this crunchy layer before baking.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to achieve a perfect southern-style chicken casserole that will surely be loved by everyone who tries it!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Southern Style Chicken Casserole Recipe is a must-try for those who love bold flavors and comforting dishes. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a hearty and delicious meal. With its creamy sauce, flavorful chicken, and crispy topping, this casserole will satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.
I strongly recommend trying out this recipe and experimenting with different variations to see what works best for you. Whether you prefer spicier flavors or want to add more veggies to your casserole, this recipe can easily be customized to suit your tastes.
So gather up your ingredients and get ready to create a dish that will impress everyone at the dinner table. The Southern Style Chicken Casserole Recipe is a true Southern classic that will have you coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s one of the most popular casserole recipes in the South.
Southern Style Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 (12 ounce) package egg noodles
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, drained (Rotel)
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
- salt and pepper
- Tony Chachere's Seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Spray 13 x 9 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Boil chicken until done.
- Remove chicken to cool reserving water.
- Cook egg noodles in reserved water according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Shred chicken once cooled and set aside.
- Heat a small amount of oil over medium high heat and saute onion until tender and translucent.
- Add both cans of tomatoes and heat thoroughly.
- Cube cheese and add to tomato mixture.
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Stir until cheese is melted and blended with tomato mixture.
- Add chicken and stir to blend.
- Combine chicken mixture to egg noodles.
- Toss to coat.
- Pour mixture into prepared 13 x 9 casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for about 15 minutes just until heated through and cheese is melted on top.