Introduction
Looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for a busy weeknight? This Swiss Chicken Casserole is the answer! With tender chicken breasts, a creamy, cheesy sauce, and a buttery cracker topping, this dish is pure comfort food. It’s quick to prepare and will be a hit with the whole family. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious casserole!
Ingredients
- 1For the Casserole:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Mix the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded Swiss cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried parsley. Mix well until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
Spread the sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
5. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Check the Chicken: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole earlier in the day, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold.
- Customize the Topping: If you’re not a fan of crackers, you can substitute them with panko breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Substitutions/Variations
- Cheese: If you’re not a fan of Swiss cheese, try using cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Soup: Substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a variation in taste.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can be used instead of dried herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Prepare the dish as directed, but don’t bake it. Instead, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I serve with Swiss Chicken Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
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Thank you for trying out this Swiss Chicken Casserole recipe! It’s the perfect dish to satisfy your comfort food cravings. Enjoy this hearty and delicious meal with your loved ones!
Swiss Chicken Casserole recipe!