Casseroles are a staple of home cooking, offering comfort, convenience, and delicious flavors all in one dish. This Chicken Bubble Biscuit Bake Casserole is a perfect example of a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family. With layers of tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, melted cheese, and golden-brown biscuits, it’s a comforting dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 tablespoons Ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 12 oz refrigerated biscuits (1 can, 12 oz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Ranch seasoning mix, cream of chicken soup, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sour cream. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is creamy and smooth.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer: Transfer the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken mixture, creating a cheesy layer that will melt into gooey goodness as it bakes.
4. Add the Biscuits:
- Arrange Biscuits: Open the can of refrigerated biscuits and arrange them evenly on top of the cheese layer. You can cut each biscuit into quarters for smaller pieces or leave them whole for larger bubbles.
5. Bake the Casserole:
- Bake: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Check Doneness: To ensure the biscuits are fully cooked, insert a toothpick into the center of one biscuit. If it comes out clean, the biscuits are done and the casserole is ready to be served.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will be very hot straight out of the oven. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite.
Cooking Notes and Tips:
- Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition. Peas, carrots, and broccoli are all great options.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Simply cover the dish with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
- Serve with Sides: This casserole pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.
- Store and Reheat: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through.
Variations and Additions:
- Spice it Up: For a spicier version of this casserole, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Experiment with different types of cheese for the topping, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Swiss cheese, for a unique flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon and substitute with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, for a vegetarian-friendly version of this casserole.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuits or make your own gluten-free biscuit dough to accommodate those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or basil to the chicken mixture for added freshness and flavor.
- Creamy Twist: Mix a dollop of cream cheese into the chicken mixture for an extra creamy and indulgent texture.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-friendly: Substitute the refrigerated biscuits with a homemade or store-bought keto-friendly biscuit dough made with almond flour, coconut flour, or a combination of both. You can also omit the biscuits altogether and serve the chicken mixture over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
- Low-Carb: Reduce the amount of sour cream and use full-fat versions to keep the carb count low. Additionally, opt for a lower-carb cream of chicken soup or make your own using a keto-friendly recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use homemade cream of chicken soup instead of canned? A: Absolutely! Homemade cream of chicken soup will add even more flavor to this casserole. Simply substitute an equal amount of homemade soup for the canned version.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole for later? A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the recipe instructions. If freezing after baking, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the assembled dish with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil or plastic wrap and bake according to the recipe instructions, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of shredding it myself? A: Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken, whether it’s roasted, grilled, or rotisserie, can be used in place of shredded chicken. Simply shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and proceed with the recipe as directed.
In conclusion, this Chicken Bubble Biscuit Bake Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this hearty casserole is sure to satisfy. With its creamy chicken filling, cheesy topping, and fluffy biscuits, it’s comfort food at its finest. Plus, with the variations and tips provided, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. So gather your ingredients and give this comforting casserole a try – you won’t be disappointed!
