chicken casserole holds a special place in my heart. Whether it was served after a Sunday service in Macon, Mississippi, or shared among friends at the basement of Blessed Sacrament in San Diego, this comforting dish was always there. Its simple yet satisfying combination of chicken, starch, creamy soup, and a crunchy topping made it a staple I could never resist. Every bite brings memories of gathering together, sharing good food, and enjoying the warmth of home-cooked meals.
As with many cherished recipes, the tradition of church chicken casserole has been passed down through generations. My stepmother’s version, influenced by her Illinois roots, used uncooked Minute Rice and a crispy onion soup mix topping. But the version that sticks with me most is the one from my Grandma Olga Mae. Her rendition, featuring egg noodles, sour cream, and Ritz crackers, was a recipe that felt like a warm embrace. Though I wouldn’t dare change her dish too much, I’ve swapped out canned soups for a homemade roux-based sauce, ensuring all the flavor without the unnecessary sodium.
This version brings a bit of a twist while still staying true to the heart of what makes church chicken casserole so beloved. With fresh chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy chicken broth sauce, this casserole offers a comforting, elevated take on the classic. It’s a dish that will have your family asking for seconds, just like the ones from the church picnics of the past.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This church chicken casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll love how the homemade roux creates a rich, creamy base that enhances the flavor of the chicken and mushrooms. The egg noodles bring a comforting texture, while the crunchy Ritz cracker topping adds a perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this casserole is versatile enough for any occasion. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers!
Ingredients Overview
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Chicken, noodles, mushrooms, and sour cream form the foundation of the casserole. You can easily swap out the chicken for rotisserie chicken or use a different type of noodle. The homemade sauce is made from scratch with just a few pantry ingredients, including chicken broth, milk, and flour, ensuring a clean and flavorful dish. The topping is what truly takes it to the next level, with Ritz crackers adding crunch and buttery richness.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray or butter. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the egg noodles for 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set the noodles aside.
Step 2: Season the cubed chicken with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes, turning until lightly browned but not fully cooked.
Step 3: Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned, tender, and the juices have mostly evaporated. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: In the skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until light tan. Slowly add the chicken broth and milk, whisking until the sauce thickens. Stir in the seasoning: salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Step 5: Add the cooked noodles, chicken, and mushrooms to the sauce. Stir in the sour cream, making sure everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Mix until the sauce evenly coats all the ingredients.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. In a zip-top bag, crush the Ritz crackers into crumbs and mix with melted butter. Sprinkle the cracker topping over the casserole and bake for 30–40 minutes, until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- For an extra creamy texture, use full-fat sour cream.
- If you prefer a crunchier topping, add a bit more crushed crackers or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
- For a variation, consider adding sautéed spinach or other vegetables to the casserole for added flavor.
Variations to Try
- Swap the egg noodles for penne or fusilli pasta for a different texture.
- Use a different type of cracker or dry stuffing mix for the topping for varied flavors.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken? Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and will work perfectly in this casserole.
- Can I use a different type of noodle? Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or bowtie pasta.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover tightly and bake within 2–3 months.
- Can I add more vegetables? Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to increase the nutrition and flavor.
How to Store and Reheat
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.
Conclusion
Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich, creamy flavors with a satisfying crunch. The homemade roux-based sauce elevates this dish, making it both wholesome and delicious. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
The egg noodles, chicken, and mushrooms come together beautifully, and the Ritz cracker topping gives it that familiar, nostalgic taste. It’s a recipe that brings back memories of shared meals and joyful moments with loved ones. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this casserole will never disappoint.
I hope this Church Chicken Casserole becomes a staple in your kitchen. It’s a dish that’s as comforting as it is tasty, and it’s sure to be a hit every time. Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest, Ava Foodie, for more delicious recipes that are just as heartwarming!
