Nixon Chicken Casserole Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

Welcome to a delightful journey with the Nixon Chicken Casserole recipe, a comforting dish that has become a household favorite for good reason. This casserole blends tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a crispy, golden topping to create a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease.

Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave something warm and nourishing, the Nixon Chicken Casserole is a versatile recipe that adapts well to different tastes and ingredient swaps. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines convenience with wholesome ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks who don’t want to compromise on taste or nutrition.

Let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and how you can master it at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nixon Chicken Casserole is more than just a casserole; it’s a crowd-pleaser that offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

• Simple and accessible ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and fridge.
• Rich and creamy sauce that keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.
• A crispy topping made with breadcrumbs or crackers for that satisfying crunch.
• One-dish meal convenience — easy to prepare, bake, and serve.
• Customizable with veggies and cheese to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

This casserole is perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or even as leftovers for the next day. Not to mention, it pairs wonderfully with many side dishes and salads.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping if desired)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 1/2 cups crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz) or breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

Equipment

• 9×13 inch casserole dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
• Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the chicken and vegetables. If using leftover or rotisserie chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. Chop celery and onion finely. If using frozen vegetables, thaw slightly.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the chicken, celery, onion, and optional vegetables to the creamy mixture. Stir gently to evenly coat all the ingredients.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of the casserole to create a crispy crust.
7. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
8. Remove from oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to serve.
9. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Nixon Chicken Casserole!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy mixture.”

• Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste profile.
• Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition and texture.
• Crunch Topping: Use crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs as an alternative to crackers.
• Make it lighter: Use low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise, or substitute with plain Greek yogurt.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh and crisp sides. Consider serving it alongside a light salad such as a Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas to balance the richness with some bright greens.

For a cozy meal, try it with steamed vegetables or roasted root vegetables. You could also complement it with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

To keep the meal balanced, a simple vegetable soup from the collection of Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food adds a warm, nutritious starter that everyone will love.

Conclusion

The Nixon Chicken Casserole recipe is a timeless classic that brings comfort and ease to your dining table. With its creamy texture, savory chicken, and crispy topping, it’s a dish that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility—allowing you to tweak ingredients according to your taste and what’s available in your pantry.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. It also pairs well with a variety of sides and salads, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal.

For more delicious recipe ideas to complement your cooking, explore our collection of easy and healthy dishes such as the Cooking Light Vegetarian Casserole Recipes for Easy Meals and Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

Enjoy this comforting casserole as a new family favorite, and happy cooking!

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