This Deviled Chicken Casserole Recipe is a perfect blend of the rich and tangy flavors we all love in deviled eggs, combined with the heartiness of a chicken casserole. This delightful dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re looking to serve a unique dinner or need an impressive potluck dish, this casserole will stand out and have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe)!
Deviled Chicken Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts diced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- 2 hard-boiled eggs finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish.
- Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter. This will be used as the crunchy topping.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
- Add the seasoned chicken to the sauce mixture. Toss well to ensure every piece is generously coated.
- Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the chopped hard-boiled eggs over the chicken. Then spread the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Finish off by evenly distributing the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.
- Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Chicken Choices: While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are commonly used for casseroles, you can opt for thighs for juicier results. If using leftover chicken, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Spice Levels: The "deviled" in the casserole refers to its spicy kick. If you're sensitive to heat, consider reducing ingredients like chili flakes, hot sauce, or mustard. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add more!
- Topping: For a crispy finish, consider topping your casserole with bread crumbs or crushed crackers mixed with a bit of melted butter before baking.
- Sauce Consistency: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the thickness of the sauce. For a thicker consistency, reduce the liquid or use a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Elevate the nutritional profile and texture of your casserole by adding veggies like bell peppers, peas, or carrots.
- Cheese Layer: If you're a cheese lover, layering or topping the casserole with grated cheese can add extra richness and flavor.
- Storage: If you have leftovers or are prepping in advance, ensure the casserole is cooled before covering and storing in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: When reheating, cover the casserole with aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent the top from over-browning.
- Serving Suggestions: This spicy, creamy casserole pairs beautifully with light salads, garlic bread, or even a glass of white wine.
- Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free variant, consider substituting chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a medley of chunky vegetables.
Why Make Deviled Chicken Casserole Recipe?
Deviled Chicken Casserole offers a delightful twist on the classic chicken casserole, bringing together the creamy richness of a casserole with the slightly spicy kick of deviled flavors. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to elevate their usual chicken dishes, making meals memorable and more flavorful. The recipe seamlessly merges comfort food with a gourmet touch, making it perfect for both family dinners and special occasions.
How Difficult Is It To Make Deviled Chicken Casserole Recipe?
Crafting the Deviled Chicken Casserole is fairly straightforward, making it accessible even for beginner cooks. While it might involve a few more ingredients than a basic chicken casserole, the steps are intuitive. Most of the effort goes into preparing the creamy, spicy sauce and layering the ingredients. As with most casseroles, once it’s set in the oven, the baking process does most of the work for you.
How Does Deviled Chicken Casserole Recipe Taste?
The Deviled Chicken Casserole is a harmonious blend of creamy and spicy. The chicken remains tender and juicy, soaking up the flavors of the sauce. There’s an underlying tangy kick, reminiscent of classic deviled eggs, complemented by the depth of the casserole’s other ingredients. The top layer often gets slightly crispy, offering a wonderful contrast to the soft and flavorful insides.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What makes it “deviled”?
The term “deviled” typically refers to dishes that have a spicy or zesty kick, often from ingredients like mustard, paprika, or hot sauce. In this casserole, it’s the tangy-spicy sauce that earns it the “deviled” title. - Can I make it less spicy?
Absolutely! You can adjust the spices according to your preference. Simply reduce the spicy ingredients or replace them with milder alternatives. - What sides go well with this casserole?
Lighter sides like a green salad, steamed vegetables, or even roasted potatoes pair wonderfully with the richness of the Deviled Chicken Casserole. - Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover roasted or grilled chicken can be used. Just ensure it’s properly shredded or chopped and remember that pre-cooked chicken may reduce the baking time. - How long does it last in the refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, the Deviled Chicken Casserole should remain fresh for up to 3-4 days. It’s best reheated in the oven or microwave before serving.
This deviled chicken casserole recipe combines the zest and spice of deviled eggs with the wholesome satisfaction of a classic casserole. It’s a comforting dish with a kick! Whether you’re serving it up on a chilly evening or presenting it at a gathering, this dish is sure to be remembered. Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables, and enjoy this culinary journey of flavors and textures!
