I recall a chilly evening when I craved comfort food but wanted something different from the usual. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of combining two favorites: chicken pot pie and Cheddar Bay biscuits. The result was a delightful Cheddar Bay Chicken Pot Pie Casserole that quickly became a family favorite.
What Is Cheddar Bay Chicken Pot Pie Casserole?
This dish marries the creamy, hearty filling of a traditional chicken pot pie with the cheesy, garlicky goodness of Cheddar Bay biscuits. It’s a comforting casserole that brings together tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a rich sauce, all topped with golden, cheesy biscuits.
Ingredients for Cheddar Bay Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
To prepare this comforting casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Filling:
- Cooked Chicken: 4 cups, shredded or diced.
- Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables: 12 ounces (peas, carrots, corn, and green beans).
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 10 ounces.
- Chicken Broth: 1 1/2 cups.
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup.
- Milk: 1/2 cup.
- Seasonings: Onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, seasoned salt, and black pepper to taste.
- For the Biscuit Topping:
How to Make Cheddar Bay Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, and milk.
- Season the mixture with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, seasoned salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Stir in the shredded chicken and frozen mixed vegetables until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Prepare the Biscuit Topping:
- In a separate bowl, prepare the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix according to the package instructions, incorporating the shredded cheddar cheese into the dough.
- Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the chicken mixture, covering the top as evenly as possible.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Finish:
- Melt 1/4 cup of butter and brush it over the baked biscuits for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Spoon into bowls and enjoy the comforting blend of creamy filling and cheesy biscuit topping.
Tips for a Perfect Casserole
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken works well for this recipe, offering convenience and flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use fresh vegetables or other frozen mixes based on your preference.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker filling, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly.
- Biscuit Mix: If Cheddar Bay biscuit mix isn’t available, you can make your own by adding shredded cheddar cheese and garlic powder to a standard biscuit mix.
Variations of Cheddar Bay Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
- Turkey Substitute: Swap the chicken for leftover turkey, especially around the holidays.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for some heat.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the filling for added aroma and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with:
- Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus make excellent side choices.
- Cranberry Sauce: For a festive touch, serve with a side of cranberry sauce.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
My Personal Touch
To add a personal twist, I sometimes mix in a handful of cooked, crumbled bacon into the filling. The smoky flavor complements the creamy sauce and cheesy biscuits perfectly.
Cheddar Bay Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is a delightful fusion of two comfort food classics. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With its creamy filling and cheesy biscuit topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.