Lazy sunday made easy: no-stress chicken casserole for slow cooker

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of chicken casserole wafting through the house. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can easily create this classic dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Our slow cooker chicken casserole recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and savory vegetables that will warm your body and soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (1-1.5 pounds)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2-3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2-3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of celery soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large slow cooker, combine the seasoned chicken, sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, chicken broth, milk, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If desired, make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir into the casserole and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
6. Add Cheese (Optional): For a cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole and cook for 5 minutes more, or until melted.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Scoop the warm and comforting chicken casserole into bowls and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Tips for a Perfect Chicken Casserole:

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and a flavorful chicken broth will elevate the taste of your casserole.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Check the chicken periodically to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
• Adjust the seasonings: Taste the casserole and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference.
• Add your favorite vegetables: Feel free to customize your casserole by adding other vegetables, such as peas, corn, or mushrooms.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread: The perfect accompaniment to a warm and comforting casserole is a slice of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Variations on the Classic:

• Creamy Spinach Chicken Casserole: Add a cup of chopped fresh spinach to the casserole for a vibrant and nutritious twist.
• Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole: Stir in a cup of cooked broccoli florets and a cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesy and vegetable-packed variation.
• Mushroom and Wild Rice Chicken Casserole: Replace the celery with a cup of sliced mushrooms and add a cup of cooked wild rice for a hearty and flavorful casserole.

The Perfect Comfort Food for Any Occasion:

Whether it’s a cold winter night, a cozy weekend brunch, or a comforting dinner after a long day, our slow cooker chicken casserole is the perfect comfort food to warm your body and soul. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste, and sure to become a family favorite.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Simply thaw it completely before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Q: How can I make a gluten-free version of this casserole?
A: To make a gluten-free casserole, use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. Also, check the labels of the cream of chicken and cream of celery soups to ensure they are gluten-free.