Indulge in the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors with our BBQ Chicken Casserole recipe. This hearty and delicious dish features tender shredded chicken, sweet corn, tangy barbecue sauce, and creamy cheese, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this casserole is sure to impress. So, let’s fire up the oven and create a meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 10 oz egg noodles
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup diced red onions
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
- 2/3 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s Original Barbecue sauce (or your favorite BBQ sauce)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup French’s crispy fried onions
- 1/4 cup diced red onions
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Egg Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken, diced red onions, frozen corn, cream of chicken soup, barbecue sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Add Egg Noodles: Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the chicken mixture until evenly distributed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the chicken and noodle mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, crispy fried onions, diced red onions, and barbecue sauce for the topping.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the topping mixture evenly over the chicken and noodle mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Make this casserole vegetarian by substituting cooked chickpeas or black beans for the shredded chicken. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up: For an extra kick of heat, add a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the casserole mixture.
- Make it Creamier: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the casserole mixture for added creaminess.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make this casserole keto-friendly, substitute the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. Use a low-carb barbecue sauce and ensure the cream of chicken soup is keto-friendly or make your own keto-friendly cream sauce using heavy cream and chicken broth. Replace the crispy fried onions with crushed pork rinds for a crunchy topping.
- Low Carb Option: Follow the keto option above and further reduce the carb content by omitting the corn and using diced bell peppers or cauliflower florets instead. Use a low-carb cheese blend for both the casserole mixture and the topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer or have on hand, such as penne, rotini, or even macaroni.
Q: Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked, shredded chicken?
A: Absolutely! Simply cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs until fully cooked, then shred them before adding to the casserole mixture.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. Just be sure to add the topping just before baking to ensure it stays crispy.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of BBQ Chicken Casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I customize the toppings?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking by adding cooked and crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, or sliced green onions.
With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, BBQ Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or a potluck party, this hearty dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dig in and savor the deliciousness!
