Ingredients
Pantry Staples
The foundation of any pantry-stapled dish lies in its ingredient list, and our Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe is no exception. When stocking a pantry for such recipes, it’s essential to consider the staples that will be used frequently and those that might require occasional replenishment.
Let’s begin with the dry goods
flour, pasta, rice, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, and spices. These items are versatile and should already be part of your pantry inventory if you’re planning to cook regularly. For our casserole, we’ll need all-purpose flour for thickening purposes and a pinch of salt for seasoning.
Moving on to the canned goods
beans, vegetables, fruits, soups, broths, tomatoes, and coconut milk are some common pantry staples. These items can be used in various recipes beyond our casserole. We’ll be using canned chicken broth and condensed cream of mushroom soup as primary components for our dish.
Other essential ingredients include oil or butter, eggs, cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well), and spices such as dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. For our recipe, we’ll need some grated cheddar cheese to add flavor and creaminess.
A few additional items you may already have in your pantry but should keep on hand include breadcrumbs (for the crispy topping of our casserole), onion powder for added depth of flavor, and a pinch of black pepper for seasoning. Feel free to substitute with whatever spices or herbs you prefer.
Now that we’ve reviewed the ingredients needed for our Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe, it’s time to focus on cooking techniques and preparation steps. Let’s dive into the instructions below.
1 cup cooked chicken breast or thighs
Cooked chicken breast or thighs are a key ingredient in the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe, and it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients for optimal flavor and texture.
The choice between using chicken breast or thighs depends on personal preference and the desired consistency of the casserole. Chicken breast is leaner and will result in a lighter, more delicate flavor, while chicken thighs are higher in fat and will yield a richer, more robust taste.
When selecting cooked chicken, make sure it’s been cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. If using pre-cooked chicken from the store, check the packaging for any handling or storage instructions.
To prepare the cooked chicken, you can simply chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces and set aside until ready to use in the casserole recipe.
1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (such as Campbell’s)
Canned condensed cream of mushroom soup is a staple ingredient in many recipes, particularly in comfort food dishes like casseroles and sauces.
The key component that makes this type of soup so versatile is its thick, creamy consistency, which is achieved through the process of concentrating vegetables, seasonings, and sometimes milk or water in high heat.
When it comes to cooking with canned cream of mushroom soup, the first thing you might notice is the strong aroma and flavor that hits your senses upon opening the can.
The ingredients typically used to make condensed cream of mushroom soup include mushrooms, onions, garlic, salt, sugar, flour, butter or oil, and spices like black pepper and paprika.
These ingredients are combined in a specific ratio and cooked until they break down into a rich, velvety liquid that can be easily canned for later use.
In the context of the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe, the cream of mushroom soup serves as a fundamental component that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
The condensed soup is mixed with other ingredients like chicken, pasta, and vegetables to create a hearty, satisfying casserole that is both comforting and delicious.
The combination of flavors from the canned soup works in harmony with the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients to create an authentic taste experience.
When using condensed cream of mushroom soup in recipes like the Pantry Chicken Casserole, it’s essential to consider the quality and brand you choose, as these factors can affect the overall flavor outcome.
1/2 cup milk
- The milk used in this recipe serves as a key ingredient to create a rich and creamy texture.
- Milk is a versatile dairy product that provides moisture, tenderness, and flavor to various dishes.
- In the context of Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe, milk plays a crucial role in achieving the desired consistency and taste.
Here’s what you need to know about milk:
Creaminess
The fat content of milk contributes to its creamy texture and is essential for creating a smooth casserole topping.
Moisture
Milk helps retain the moisture within the casserole, preventing it from drying out during baking.
Tenderness
The enzymes present in milk help break down the proteins and make the casserole more tender.
The 1/2 cup of milk required for this recipe is crucial for achieving the perfect balance between creaminess, moisture, and tenderness. Using the right amount ensures that the casserole turns out light and fluffy without being too soggy or dry.
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Dried thyme is a popular herb commonly used in cooking, particularly in savory dishes like the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe. When it comes to using dried herbs like thyme, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, thyme has a potent flavor that can be overpowering if too much is used. A teaspoon of dried thyme is usually sufficient to add depth and complexity to a dish without overpowering the other flavors.
To use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in your Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe, you will first need to make sure it’s stored properly in your pantry. Dried herbs like thyme are best stored in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or drawer, to preserve their flavor and aroma.
Before adding the dried thyme to your recipe, you may want to consider “blooming” the herb by mixing it with a small amount of hot water or broth. This helps to release the flavors and aromas of the thyme, making them more available for absorption by the other ingredients in your casserole.
When incorporating the dried thyme into your recipe, be sure to distribute it evenly throughout the dish, either by sprinkling it over the chicken or mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure that every bite of your Pantry Chicken Casserole has a balanced and delicious flavor profile.
In terms of specific pairing suggestions for 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in your recipe, consider combining it with other herbs like rosemary or oregano to create a savory, herbaceous flavor. You could also try pairing the thyme with citrusy ingredients like lemon juice or zest to add brightness and depth to your casserole.
1/2 teaspoon salt
The Panera Pantry Chicken Casserole recipe relies heavily on a medley of ingredients that blend harmoniously together to create an aromatic and mouthwatering dish.
One crucial component is salt, which serves as a vital seasoning agent in this recipe.
In particular, the instruction calls for 1/2 teaspoon salt, an amount sufficient to add flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
To understand the significance of this ingredient, it’s essential to consider its role in enhancing the overall taste experience.
Salt is not only a flavor enhancer but also plays a crucial part in balancing the sweetness and acidity levels in various recipes.
In this Pantry Chicken Casserole recipe, 1/2 teaspoon of salt will be used judiciously to elevate the flavors without adding unnecessary sodium content.
This is particularly important when dealing with a casserole that requires the combination of multiple ingredients to achieve its signature taste profile.
The use of salt in this recipe also underscores the importance of understanding the nuances of flavor and how different seasonings can work together seamlessly.
By carefully balancing the proportions of salt and other seasonings, home cooks can create a truly exceptional dish that is both aromatic and delectable.
This 1/2 teaspoon of salt will undoubtedly be a pivotal element in crafting this mouthwatering Pantry Chicken Casserole recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
The star ingredient in this Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe is undoubtedly the chicken, but that’s not all – we also need to talk about the supporting cast of ingredients that come together to make this dish a true classic.
One of the most crucial components is black pepper. You’ll only need 1/4 teaspoon of it for this recipe, but trust us when we say it makes all the difference in bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Now you might be wondering why just 1/4 teaspoon is enough. The thing is, a little bit of black pepper can go a long way, especially when combined with the savory goodness of chicken and a medley of vegetables like onions, carrots, and peas.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – it’s all about using pantry staples to create something truly delicious. And that’s exactly what 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper does – it elevates the dish from something ordinary to something truly exceptional.
Of course, you can adjust the amount of black pepper to your taste preferences. Some people like a bit more heat, while others prefer it milder. The important thing is to find that sweet spot where the flavors come together in perfect harmony.
In this recipe, the chicken serves as the base, providing a solid foundation for all the other ingredients. But it’s the supporting cast – including black pepper, of course! – that truly makes this dish shine. So don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own perfect balance of flavors.
Instructions
Cooking the Casserole
- To cook the Pantry Chicken Casserole, follow these step-by-step instructions carefully.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, as indicated by the temperature gauge on the oven’s control panel.
- Gather all the necessary ingredients and tools required for the recipe. These include:
- A large mixing bowl
- A measuring cup or spoon
- Cooking utensils such as a spatula, wooden spoon, or whisk
The Pantry Chicken Casserole recipe ingredients, which include:
- 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup (cream of mushroom soup can also be used for variation)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of milk or heavy cream
- 2 cups of cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup of crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines)
- Begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting for it to heat up, proceed with preparing the ingredients.
- Pour the can of condensed cream of chicken soup into the mixing bowl and stir until smooth using a whisk or wooden spoon.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl and mix well until fully incorporated.
- Next, pour in the 1/2 cup of milk or heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
- If using, add the finely chopped onion and mix gently to avoid over-mixing.
- Add the diced chicken breast to the bowl and stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish coated with non-stick cooking spray or greased with butter for an easy release.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Once cooked, remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, garnished with chopped herbs or chives if desired.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
Instructions for making a delicious Pantry Chicken Casserole are essential, and it all starts with preheating the oven to the perfect temperature. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) – this is the ideal starting point for many recipes, including ours.
The reason we choose 350°F (175°C) as our temperature is that it’s hot enough to cook through the casserole without burning the top or overcooking the ingredients. At this temperature, you’ll achieve a golden-brown crust on top while keeping the inside moist and tender.
It’s crucial to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature before starting. You can use an oven thermometer to double-check if needed. Preheating the oven also helps the dish cook evenly, which is vital for achieving that perfect casserole texture.
In our Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe, you’ll be using a combination of pantry staples and some fresh ingredients. Once the oven is preheated, you can proceed with layering the ingredients in your baking dish and starting to cook your delicious meal.
Remember that different types of ovens may vary slightly in temperature performance. Always keep an eye on your casserole while it’s cooking, especially during the last 10-15 minutes when the top starts to brown and crisp up.
Mix cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl
To follow this Pantry Chicken Casserole recipe, it’s essential to understand and execute the instructions carefully. The first step involves combining various ingredients in a large bowl, which will serve as the base for the casserole.
The following are the steps involved in mixing the cooked chicken with other ingredients:
Mix cooked chicken
Start by adding the cooked chicken to the large bowl. Ensure that the chicken is cooled down before proceeding, as this will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
Add cream of mushroom soup
Open a can of cream of mushroom soup and pour its contents into the bowl containing the chicken. This will add a rich and creamy texture to the casserole.
Mix in milk
Gradually pour in the required amount of milk while mixing it with the chicken and cream of mushroom soup. Be careful not to add too much milk, as this might make the mixture too runny.
Add thyme
Thyme is a crucial herb that adds flavor to the casserole. Sprinkle the required amount of thyme into the bowl and mix it well with the other ingredients.
Season with salt and pepper
Add salt and pepper according to taste, but make sure not to overdo it as this might affect the overall flavor profile of the casserole. Mix everything together until the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Once the ingredients are well-mixed, you can proceed with assembling the casserole and baking it in the oven according to your preference. This will allow you to create a delicious Pantry Chicken Casserole that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters!
Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish
To complete this task, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Prepare your baking dish by ensuring it is clean and dry.
- Check that you have a 9×13 inch baking dish readily available.
- Open the pantry and retrieve the required ingredients for the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe.
- Measure out the correct quantities of each ingredient, as specified in the recipe.
- Combine the measured ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
Once you have your ingredients ready:
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure it does not stick and comes out easily after baking.
- Remove any air pockets that may form within the casserole by gently tilting the baking dish back and forth.
- Allow the casserole to settle evenly in the dish, ensuring uniform cooking during the baking process.
Now that your mixture is successfully poured into a 9×13 inch baking dish:
- Follow the remaining steps of the recipe for preparation and baking the casserole to perfection.
- Set aside any additional ingredients, such as toppings or sauces, as indicated in the recipe for final touches before serving.
Bake the casserole according to the recipe’s specified temperature and cooking time, ensuring it is thoroughly cooked through.
Once the casserole is ready, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving
Nutrition information for the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe can vary depending on specific ingredient quantities and brands used.
However, here is an approximate breakdown of the nutritional values per serving:
- Serving size: 1/6 of the total recipe
- Calories per serving: approximately 320-400
- Total Fat: 18g (26% daily value)
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g (23% daily value)
- Cholesterol: 60mg (20% daily value)
- Sodium: 450mg (19% daily value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g (7% daily value)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% daily value)
Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g (50% daily value)
- Vitamin A: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 20% of the DV
- Calcium: 15% of the DV
- Iron: 30% of the DV
This nutrition information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used. It’s always a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Calories: approximately 250300
The Nutrition Information for the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe provides a detailed breakdown of the nutritional values of the dish, highlighting its calorie content and other essential nutrients.
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information, listed in detail:
Calories
- Approximate Calories: 250-300 per serving
- Calorie Breakdown: This range is based on an approximate calorie count for the entire casserole recipe, which serves 6-8 individuals. The calories are calculated based on the ingredients and portion sizes used in the recipe.
Nutrient Information
The Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe provides a good balance of essential nutrients, including protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of some key nutrients:
- Protein: Approximately 30-40 grams per serving, primarily from chicken breast, chicken broth, and eggs.
- Fat: About 15-20 grams per serving, with a mix of healthy fats from olive oil, butter, and eggs.
- Carbohydrates: Roughly 20-30 grams per serving, including complex carbohydrates from whole wheat pasta, vegetables, and fruits.
- Fiber: Around 5-7 grams per serving, mostly from whole wheat pasta, vegetables, and fruits.
Vitamins and Minerals
The Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Some notable ones include:
- Vitamin A: From carrots, sweet potatoes, and eggs, providing approximately 20-25% of the daily recommended intake per serving.
- Vitamin C: With high amounts from bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, contributing about 50-60% of the daily recommended intake per serving.
- From milk or heavy cream, providing approximately 20-25% of the daily recommended intake per serving.
Remember that this nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredient measurements and portion sizes. For a more accurate breakdown, it’s always best to consult a reliable nutrition source or use a trusted nutrition calculator.
Fat: 1012g
The nutrition information for our Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe highlights the importance of understanding the breakdown of macronutrients and micronutrients in a meal.
Here are the details of the nutrition information:
- Total Fat: The recipe contains a substantial amount of fat, totaling 1012g. This is comprised of saturated fats, monounsaturated fats, and polyunsaturated fats.
Fats play a crucial role in providing energy, aiding in the absorption of vitamins, and supporting hormone production. However, excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
In the context of this recipe, fat content contributes to its richness and texture. The majority comes from ingredients like butter, cream, and processed meats.
While it’s essential to consume fats in moderation, a well-balanced diet can provide these vital nutrients while minimizing risks associated with excessive intake. To mitigate the impact of high-fat foods like our Pantry Chicken Casserole, consider reducing portion sizes or incorporating more nutrient-dense ingredients into your meals.
Here are some suggestions for adjusting the recipe to make it healthier:
- Reduce added fats: Consider using low-fat dairy products, olive oil, or avocado instead of butter and cream.
- Add fiber-rich ingredients: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or carrots to increase the nutrient density of your meal.
- Choose lean protein sources: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs instead of processed meats.
Remember that even with modifications, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice. By understanding the role of fats in our diet and making informed choices, we can create healthier versions of favorite recipes like this Pantry Chicken Casserole.
Saturated fat: 45g
The Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe, a delicious and convenient meal that can be prepared with common pantry ingredients, requires attention to nutritional values for a balanced diet.
Saturated fat content in this recipe plays a significant role in determining the overall nutritional quality of the dish.
In a single serving of the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe (assuming 4-6 servings total), there is approximately 11.25g of saturated fat per portion.
For comparison, the daily recommended intake of saturated fat by health experts varies; some sources suggest limiting it to less than 10% of total daily calories or no more than 20 grams (200 calories) daily for a standard adult diet.The high content of saturated fat in this recipe stems from ingredients such as butter and cheese used in its preparation. To reduce the amount of saturated fats, consider substituting these items with healthier alternatives, such as low-fat versions or plant-based products like vegan butter.
Additionally, incorporating vegetables rich in fiber and antioxidants can counterbalance the nutritional drawbacks associated with a high-saturated fat intake. Aim to include at least two servings of non-starchy vegetables per dish, as recommended by many health organizations.
The key to making healthier choices when consuming Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe lies not only in understanding its nutrition information but also in adopting a balanced eating approach that considers all aspects of nutritional value, including the proportion of macronutrients, fiber content, and the variety of food sources.
Cholesterol: 4050mg
The nutrition information for the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe has been broken down into several key components to provide a comprehensive understanding of its nutritional content.
In particular, one aspect that stands out is the cholesterol level in this recipe. According to the provided information, the dish contains 4050mg of cholesterol.
This amount of cholesterol can have significant implications for individuals with certain health conditions or those who are on a diet aimed at reducing their overall cholesterol intake. For example, people with high cholesterol levels may want to limit their consumption of foods that contain high amounts of cholesterol in order to help reduce their risk of heart disease.
It’s worth noting that the American Heart Association recommends limiting daily dietary cholesterol intake to 300 milligrams per day for healthy adults and children over two years old. Consuming high levels of dietary cholesterol can increase blood cholesterol levels, potentially leading to heart disease and stroke.
To put this into perspective, it’s essential to consider the overall nutritional profile of the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe. While the cholesterol level may be a concern for some individuals, other nutrients such as protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals are present in significant amounts.
The recipe contains approximately 50g of protein per serving, which is beneficial for muscle growth and maintenance. Additionally, there are 8g of dietary fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements and support digestive health.
Further analysis reveals that the dish is a good source of several essential vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin B Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Meanwhile, vitamin C supports immune system function and iron absorption.
In conclusion, while the high cholesterol level in the Pantry Chicken Casserole Recipe may be a concern for some individuals, it is essential to consider the overall nutritional profile of the dish. By balancing this recipe with other nutrient-dense foods and taking steps to manage cholesterol levels, individuals can enjoy a nutritious meal that meets their dietary needs.
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