This Artichoke Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish packed with tender chicken and tasty artichokes. It’s a cozy comfort meal that the whole family will love.
Cooking it feels like a warm hug! Just mix everything together, pop it in the oven, and wait for that heavenly smell to fill your kitchen. I love serving it with a simple salad on the side!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken to save time. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded turkey works well, too! Just make sure it’s well-seasoned for the best flavor.
Artichoke Hearts: Canned artichokes are convenient, but frozen or jarred artichokes can also be used. If you prefer fresh, just steam and chop them finely. They bring a lovely texture to the casserole.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese if you want a lighter or dairy-free option. Just be aware that it may change the flavor a bit.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic for this dish, but you could use Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile. You can mix cheeses for an extra cheesy delight!
Cubed Bread: Day-old bread is best as it holds up better. You can use sourdough, French bread, or even gluten-free bread. For a healthier option, try whole grain or rye bread.
How Do I Make the Casserole Creamy Without Overdoing It?
Achieving that perfect creamy texture lies in balancing your ingredients. Here’s how to make sure your casserole remains creamy:
- Start with softened cream cheese; this helps it blend easily.
- Mix sour cream and mayonnaise into a smooth base before adding other ingredients. This avoids lumps.
- Don’t skip the stirring step! Make sure all the chicken and artichokes are evenly coated.
- Cover the casserole while it bakes for the first 20 minutes. This traps moisture. You can uncover it for the last 10-15 minutes to crisp up the topping.
Enjoy the process! This casserole is all about comfort and coziness, so take your time and have fun. It’s a great dish to share with family and friends.
Artichoke Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cubed bread (for topping; use day-old bread for best texture)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of around 50 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish lightly with cooking spray or a bit of butter.
2. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to mix these together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
3. Add the Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, stir in the chopped cooked chicken, chopped artichoke hearts, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
4. Incorporate the Cheeses:
Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Stir until everything is combined and creamy.
5. Spread in the Dish:
Carefully transfer the creamy chicken and artichoke mixture to your greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Top with Bread Cubes:
In a small bowl, mix the cubed bread with melted butter until the bread is lightly coated. Sprinkle the buttery bread cubes evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Add More Cheese:
Finish by sprinkling the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the bread cubes for extra cheesy goodness.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle dried parsley over the top if you like. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving!
10. Enjoy Your Meal!
Serve this creamy, cheesy Artichoke Chicken Casserole with a side salad or your favorite vegetables. It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly. Just chop it up and incorporate it into the mixture as directed.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be used instead of cream cheese. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also add more artichokes for an extra flavor boost!
Can I Prepare This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
