Prepare to delight your taste buds and warm your soul with our Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole recipe. This hearty and comforting dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flaky biscuits for the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a cozy dinner party, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. Join us as we dive into the steps to create this delicious meal, along with tips, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions for those with dietary preferences. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the joys of homemade comfort food!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ tsp butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 pounds of cooked chicken, cut or shredded
- 1 can of cream of chicken soup
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup of milk
- ½ cup roasted red pepper, chopped
- 1 ½ cup cheddar cheese, mild
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken Mixture:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and milk until smooth. Pour the mixture over the chicken and onions in the skillet.
- Add the chopped roasted red pepper and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.
Assembling the Casserole:
- Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and arrange the biscuits on top of the chicken mixture in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the biscuits.
Baking:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Cooking Chicken: You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe to save time. Simply shred or chop the chicken before adding it to the skillet.
- Creamy Sauce: Feel free to customize the creamy sauce by adding herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried thyme for extra flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Experiment with different vegetables such as diced carrots, peas, or mushrooms to add more nutrients and texture to the casserole.
- Cheese Options: Swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite cheese blend or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to make Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole suitable for your dietary needs:
- Almond Flour Biscuits: Replace the refrigerated biscuit dough with homemade or store-bought almond flour biscuits made with keto-friendly ingredients.
- Creamy Sauce Modifications: Use a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth instead of milk to create a low-carb creamy sauce. Thicken the sauce with xanthan gum or glucomannan powder instead of flour.
- Low-Carb Vegetables: Opt for low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower florets or broccoli instead of roasted red peppers to reduce the carb content of the casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use canned chicken instead of cooked chicken?
A: Yes, canned chicken can be used as a convenient alternative. Drain the canned chicken before adding it to the skillet.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: While you can freeze leftovers, keep in mind that the texture of the biscuits may change upon thawing. Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure that the biscuit dough is gluten-free. Check the labels carefully to avoid any gluten-containing ingredients.
In conclusion, Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy chicken filling and flaky biscuit topping, this casserole is sure to please the whole family. Whether enjoyed for a cozy dinner at home or shared with friends at a potluck, this classic comfort food dish is guaranteed to warm hearts and fill bellies. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole!
