Homemade Chicken Biscuit Casserole
When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving a hearty meal that brings comfort and satisfaction, homemade chicken biscuit casserole is the answer. This dish combines tender chicken, a creamy filling, and golden biscuits baked to perfection. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s both easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual family gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or cook fresh chicken breasts. The creamy filling is rich and flavorful, and the biscuit topping adds a delightful crunch. Plus, it’s a forgiving recipe that allows for customization based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this comforting casserole.
Ingredients Needed
Creating this casserole requires just a handful of ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry or refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients List:
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (8 biscuits)
1 tablespoon butter (melted, for brushing)
Ingredients Table with Calorie Count:
| Ingredient | Amount | Approx. Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken | 2 cups | 330 |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | 230 |
| Milk | 1 cup | 100 |
| Frozen peas and carrots | 1 cup | 70 |
| Onion | 1/2 cup | 30 |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp | 5 |
| Salt and black pepper | 1 tsp total | 0 |
| Biscuit dough (canned) | 8 biscuits | 640 |
| Butter (melted) | 1 tbsp | 100 |
| Total per dish (approx.) | — | 1505 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing this casserole is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. Follow these steps to create a delicious meal:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, frozen peas and carrots, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Assemble the casserole: Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Add the biscuit topping: Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Arrange them on top of the chicken mixture, spacing them evenly.
Brush with butter: Melt the tablespoon of butter and brush it over the tops of the biscuits. This will give them a golden, crispy finish.
Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Cool slightly before serving: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to serve.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the great things about this casserole is its versatility. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
Add cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the biscuit topping before baking.
Incorporate different vegetables: If you prefer other vegetables, feel free to substitute. Corn, green beans, or mushrooms can be used in place of peas and carrots.
Use different meats: While chicken is traditional, you can use turkey or even cooked sausage for a different flavor profile.
Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to give the casserole a bit of heat.
Make it lighter: Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat biscuits to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
Nutritional Information
This casserole is a hearty meal that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
Calories: ~375
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat or fat-free products where possible.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:
Salads: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts add a healthy and colorful side.
Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Dessert: Finish the meal with a light dessert like fruit salad or a scoop of sorbet.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
Homemade chicken biscuit casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Its simplicity, combined with the ability to customize based on personal preferences, makes it a go-to recipe for many. Whether you’re cooking for your family or preparing a dish for a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. The combination of tender chicken, creamy filling, and flaky biscuits creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting embrace of a homemade meal.