Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness. This classic casserole combines tender, shredded chicken in a creamy sauce, all topped with golden, flaky biscuits and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a perfect dish for those chilly nights when you crave something hearty and delicious.
I first encountered this delightful casserole at a potluck dinner hosted by a close friend. The rich aroma of the creamed chicken and the sight of the golden biscuits immediately caught my attention. One bite, and I was hooked. The creamy chicken mixture was perfectly balanced with the soft, cheesy biscuits, making it an instant favorite. Over time, I’ve refined the recipe to ensure that it’s easy to make while retaining all the comforting flavors that make it so special. Now, it’s a go-to dish in my household, and I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you.
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 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded
1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures that the oven reaches the right temperature by the time you’re ready to bake the casserole.
Grease the Baking Dish:
Grease the bottom and sides of a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Cook the Onion
Heat the Butter:
In a skillet, heat 1 ½ teaspoons of butter over medium heat.
Saute the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion begins to soften and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This step helps to develop the flavor of the onion and adds depth to the dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion, 2 pounds of cooked chicken (cut or shredded), 1 can of cream of chicken soup, ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 cup of milk, and ½ cup of chopped roasted red peppers.
Mix Well:
Stir the ingredients until they are well combined, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Pour into Baking Dish:
Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Initial Baking:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This initial baking helps to heat the mixture and meld the flavors together.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Biscuits
Remove from Oven:
After 15 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven.
Add Cheese and Biscuits:
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mild cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.
Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and arrange the biscuits on top of the cheese layer.
Top with Remaining Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the biscuits. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Final Baking
Bake Again:
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let Cool:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Serve:
Serve the Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole hot. This dish can be enjoyed on its own as a complete meal, or paired with a fresh salad for a balanced dinner.
Variations and Substitutions
Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole is a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a mix of vegetables such as mushrooms, broccoli, and carrots. Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken soup.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure the soup is gluten-free as well.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a bit of heat.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a unique flavor.
Healthier Option: Use low-fat mayonnaise and reduced-fat cheese. You can also substitute the milk with a lower-fat alternative.
Conclusion
Creamed Chicken and Biscuits Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with the satisfying texture of golden biscuits. The ease of preparation makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, while its delicious taste ensures it’s a hit at family gatherings and potlucks.
The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to suit your preferences, whether you want to make it vegetarian, gluten-free, or add a spicy twist. Its simplicity and the ability to bring warmth and comfort to the table make it a dish that you’ll want to make again and again.
Enjoy the process of making this hearty casserole and relish the smiles and satisfaction it brings to those who share it with you.
