Description
Hearty “Loaded Chicken Casserole” brings comfort and flavor straight from classic American kitchens. Cheesy layers of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy sauce create a satisfying meal that welcomes you home with warmth and deliciousness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 2 cups (473 ml) cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup (226 g) cooked bacon, crumbled
Dairy and Cheese:
- 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
- 1 cup (113 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.75 ounces or 305 g) condensed cream of chicken soup
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup (75 g) chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup (75 g) diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup (37 g) diced jalapenos (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 2 cups (473 ml) cooked rice or pasta
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking vessel to ensure optimal cooking conditions.
- Assemble the flavor-packed mixture by combining tender shredded chicken with creamy soup, tangy sour cream, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon crumbles, zesty green onions, juicy diced tomatoes, and optional spicy jalapenos.
- Season the mixture thoroughly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring until all ingredients are evenly distributed and create a harmonious blend.
- Transfer the robust chicken medley into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer to guarantee consistent cooking.
- If desired, create a complementary layer of cooked rice or pasta atop the chicken mixture for added texture and substance.
- Shield the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld and heat through completely.
- Uncover the dish and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, letting the cheese transform into a golden, bubbling surface.
- Allow the casserole to rest briefly after removing from the oven, which helps the ingredients settle and intensify their flavors.
- Finish by garnishing with extra green onions or tomatoes for a fresh, vibrant presentation, then serve piping hot for maximum enjoyment.
Notes
- Customize heat levels by adjusting jalapeño quantities or using mild peppers for sensitive palates.
- Swap high-fat ingredients like cream of chicken soup and sour cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat alternatives for healthier version.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time by cooking chicken and bacon in advance, reducing overall cooking time and simplifying meal preparation.
- Consider gluten-free modifications by using gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensuring bacon is certified gluten-free for individuals with dietary restrictions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 488 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 870 mg
- Fat: 34 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg