ultimate chicken casserole

Here’s a delicious and satisfying recipe for the ultimate chicken casserole:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked pasta, thawed peas, cooked vegetables, condensed cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, sour cream, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy topping.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
8. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

This ultimate chicken casserole is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering. Enjoy!