A rotisserie chicken casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Made with tender rotisserie chicken, creamy sauce, and a medley of vegetables, this casserole is as flavorful as it is convenient. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 cup broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (optional)
Method
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the ingredients: Shred the rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. If using frozen peas and carrots, thaw them beforehand.
- Make the sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Combine everything: Add the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, peas and carrots, and steamed broccoli to the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Optional topping: If you’d like a crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle them over the cheese.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it on its own or with a side salad for a complete meal.
Variations & Tips
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand. Corn, green beans, or mushrooms all make great additions. You can also use fresh vegetables instead of frozen if you prefer.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses to change the flavor profile. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or gouda can be delicious alternatives to cheddar.
- Pasta: While any pasta shape will work, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
- Toppings: For a different texture, top the casserole with crushed Ritz crackers, fried onions, or even potato chips instead of breadcrumbs.
- Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Rotisserie chicken casserole is a versatile and easy dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this casserole can be customized to suit any taste. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and variety of vegetables, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of this hearty dish!