CHICKEN AND BISCUIT CASSEROLE: A CLASSIC COMFORT FOOD RECIPE

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and satisfying dish, this Chicken and Biscuit Casserole is the perfect solution. Combining tender, shredded chicken with creamy vegetables and topped with golden, fluffy biscuits, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this delicious recipe step-by-step, offer tips and variations, and answer common questions to help you create the perfect casserole every time.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS CHICKEN AND BISCUIT CASSEROLE

• Comfort Food Classic: Creamy chicken and vegetables topped with buttery biscuits make this dish the ultimate comfort food.
• Easy to Make: With simple, everyday ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly.
• One-Dish Meal: Packed with protein, veggies, and carbs, this casserole is a complete meal in one dish.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite vegetables, seasonings, or homemade biscuits.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that pleases both kids and adults alike!

INGREDIENT BREAKDOWN AND WHY THEY WORK

Cooked, Shredded Chicken (3 cups)

• The star protein of the dish. Rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or poached chicken all work perfectly. The chicken absorbs the creamy sauce and pairs beautifully with the vegetables and biscuits.

Diced Carrots (1 cup), Celery (1 cup), and Onion (1/2 cup)

• These classic vegetables add texture, flavor, and nutrition. Together, they create the aromatic base for the casserole.

Butter (2 tablespoons)

• Used to sauté the vegetables and create the roux, which thickens the sauce. Butter also adds richness to the dish.

All-Purpose Flour (1/4 cup)

• Helps create a roux that thickens the creamy sauce for the chicken and vegetables.

Chicken Broth (2 cups)

• Forms the savory base of the sauce, infusing the casserole with rich chicken flavor.

Milk (1 cup)

• Adds creaminess and balances the richness of the sauce. Use whole milk for the best results, or substitute with a non-dairy option like almond milk if needed.

Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon) and Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon)

• These seasonings add depth and subtle herbal flavor to the dish.

Salt and Pepper (to taste)

• Essential for seasoning the casserole. Adjust to your liking.

Refrigerated Biscuits (1 can, 8 biscuits)

• The topping for the casserole. These biscuits bake to golden perfection, providing a fluffy and buttery contrast to the creamy filling. You can also use homemade biscuits for an extra-special touch.

STEP-BY-STEP DIRECTIONS: HOW TO MAKE CHICKEN AND BISCUIT CASSEROLE

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Dish

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add 1 cup diced carrots, 1 cup diced celery, and 1/2 cup diced onion.
• Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

• Stir in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. This step ensures the flour is cooked, which prevents a raw flour taste in the sauce.
• Gradually whisk in 2 cups chicken broth and 1 cup milk, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings

• Add 3 cups of shredded chicken, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Dish

• Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Top with Biscuits

• Arrange 8 biscuits (from a can or homemade) evenly over the chicken mixture. Leave a little space between each biscuit to allow them to expand while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Casserole

• Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

TIPS FOR THE BEST CHICKEN AND BISCUIT CASSEROLE

1. Use Pre-Cooked Chicken
   • Save time by using rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or store-bought shredded chicken.
2. Cut Vegetables Evenly
   • Dice the carrots, celery, and onion into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Thicken the Sauce Properly
   • Stir the roux constantly when adding broth and milk to prevent lumps. The sauce should be smooth and thick before transferring it to the baking dish.
4. Space Out the Biscuits
   • Leave some room between the biscuits so they bake evenly and become golden and fluffy.
5. Add a Crunchy Topping
   • For extra texture, sprinkle some shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on the chicken mixture before adding the biscuits.
6. Make It Ahead
   • Assemble the chicken and vegetable mixture in the baking dish and refrigerate (without the biscuits) for up to 24 hours. Add the biscuits and bake when ready.

VARIATIONS TO TRY

1. Vegetable-Packed Casserole
   • Add peas, green beans, or corn to the chicken mixture for extra vegetables.
2. Cheesy Chicken and Biscuits
   • Stir 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese into the sauce for a cheesy twist.
3. Herbed Biscuits
   • Sprinkle dried herbs (like rosemary or parsley) on the biscuits before baking for added flavor.
4. Turkey and Biscuit Casserole
   • Swap out the chicken for shredded turkey—perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers.
5. Southwestern Twist
   • Add diced green chilies, cumin, and chili powder to the sauce, and top with cornbread instead of biscuits.
6. Dairy-Free Version
   • Use plant-based butter, unsweetened almond or oat milk, and a dairy-free biscuit dough.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH CHICKEN AND BISCUIT CASSEROLE

While this casserole is a meal on its own, pairing it with light and fresh sides can enhance the dish. Here are some suggestions:

• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus make great veggie sides.
• Roasted Potatoes: Serve a small portion of crispy roasted potatoes for a comforting side.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

HOW TO STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVERS

Storage

• Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the biscuits from over-browning.

Freezing

• Freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture (without the biscuits) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add biscuits and bake.

FAQS ABOUT CHICKEN AND BISCUIT CASSEROLE

1. Can I use canned vegetables?

Yes, canned or frozen vegetables work well. Just drain canned vegetables before adding them to the dish.

2. Can I make homemade biscuits for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade biscuits add a special touch. Just prepare the biscuit dough in advance and place on top before baking.

3. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, shredded turkey is a great substitute for chicken, especially if you’re using holiday leftovers.

4. How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for the roux and gluten-free biscuit dough for the topping.

5. Can I make this casserole in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, you can cook the chicken mixture in a cast iron skillet, then add the biscuits on top and bake directly in the skillet.

6. Can I add cheese to the recipe?
Yes, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture for a cheesy version of the casserole.

7. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for this recipe.

8. How can I add more herbs?

Add fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the sauce for more herbal flavor.

CONCLUSION

This Chicken and Biscuit Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy chicken and vegetable filling, tender biscuits, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder this recipe is a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner at home or preparing it ahead of time for a gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to delight.

So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy this warm and satisfying dish that’s sure to bring comfort and smiles to your table.

Happy cooking! 😊

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