This Pepperidge Farm Chicken Casserole is a warm and comforting dish, packed with tender chicken, creamy soup, and savory veggies, all topped with crispy stuffed puff pastry. Yum!
I love how simple it is to make! Just mix the ingredients, pour, and bake. Perfect for cozy dinners when you want something tasty without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is super handy and saves time. If you have leftover chicken, that works too! For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked, shredded mushrooms or chickpeas for a different texture.
Pepperidge Farm Stuffing Mix: This mix brings fantastic flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, you can use homemade stuffing or any other brand. Just ensure it’s dry or slightly toasted beforehand for the best results.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is the base for creaminess. You can substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. If you want a healthier option, try a homemade version using a roux and chicken broth.
Sour Cream: It adds richness to your dish. Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want something lighter. It will provide a similar tangy flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for strong flavor, but any cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can be used. For a lighter option, skip the cheese or use a low-fat version.
How Can I Get the Casserole to Bake Evenly?
Getting your casserole baked evenly is key for great results. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly. This ensures the flavors meld and heat distributes evenly.
- Preheat your oven fully before placing the dish inside. An even temperature helps everything cook properly.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. This allows for uniform heat distribution as it bakes.
- Check for doneness around the 30-minute mark. Look for a bubbly center and a golden top. If it’s not ready, keep baking, checking every 5 minutes.
How to Make Pepperidge Farm Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp butter (for greasing the baking dish)
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and then 30-35 minutes to bake in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes before your delicious casserole is ready to serve! Easy and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and becomes nice and bubbly.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, Pepperidge Farm stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with a bit of butter. This will help prevent your casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier later.
4. Spread and Bake:
Once your mixture is ready, spread it evenly in the greased baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the top has a lightly golden color.
5. Cool and Serve:
After removing the casserole from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This will help it set a bit before serving. If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Serve it warm, and enjoy a hearty meal!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a perfect substitute for cooked chicken in this casserole. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces and proceed with the recipe as directed. It’ll add great flavor and save you time!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance! Just combine all the ingredients and assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit out for about 30 minutes to bring it to room temperature before cooking at 350°F for 35-40 minutes.
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I Use a Different Type of Soup?
Yes! If you don’t have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or even a homemade white sauce. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious!
