Are you craving a comforting, delicious meal but short on time? This Frozen Chicken Tender Casserole is the perfect solution! It's a simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dish that comes together quickly, even on the busiest weeknights. Using frozen chicken tenders saves you precious prep time, making this recipe ideal for busy families or anyone who wants a satisfying dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready for a homemade meal that tastes like pure comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb frozen chicken tenders, thawed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1/2 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chicken broth, and thawed chicken tenders. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
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Crispy Topping: During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the crushed Ritz crackers over the top for a delicious, crispy topping.
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Serve & Enjoy: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade chicken casserole!
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the casserole for a little kick.
- Veggie Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or mushrooms.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of Mexican cheeses or even some Gruyere would be delicious.
- Creamy Upgrade: For an extra creamy casserole, use a full cup of milk instead of 1/2 cup.
- Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This frozen chicken tender casserole recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. It’s a delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights, and a testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your weeknight dinners!