Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal? This Air Fryer Chicken Casserole recipe is just what you need. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving a comfort food classic but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With the convenience of the air fryer, you’ll be able to whip up a flavorful and creamy chicken casserole in a fraction of the time it takes in a traditional oven.
This casserole features tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and melted cheese, all perfectly crisped up in the air fryer for a delightful texture. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping a cozy dinner for yourself, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s get started and discover how easy it is to make this mouthwatering dish in your air fryer.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is the star of this casserole. It’s lean, easy to cook, and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This creamy soup serves as the base for the casserole, adding a rich and savory flavor. It creates a smooth texture that binds all the ingredients together.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For that irresistible cheesy topping, shredded cheddar cheese adds richness and flavor to the casserole. It melts perfectly and gets bubbly and golden in the air fryer.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is essential for a subtle depth of flavor. It enhances the taste of the chicken and adds that comforting, aromatic touch to the dish.
Onion Powder: Onion powder brings an extra layer of savoriness to the casserole. It complements the garlic powder and rounds out the flavor profile.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables add color, texture, and a healthy boost to this casserole. They cook quickly and blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce.
Bread Crumbs: For a crispy, golden top, bread crumbs are sprinkled over the casserole before cooking. They give a crunchy contrast to the soft, creamy interior.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the air fryer basket, cooking them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes, or until fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir until the ingredients are well mixed, creating a creamy sauce with vegetables.
Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Sauce
Add the shredded chicken into the bowl with the creamy sauce and vegetables. Stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the chicken mixture into an air fryer-safe baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Finally, add a generous layer of breadcrumbs on top for a crispy, golden finish.
Step 5: Cook the Casserole
Place the casserole into the air fryer and cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. Remove from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use chicken thighs: If you prefer a juicier, more flavorful casserole, try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
- Customize the vegetables: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorite veggies, like broccoli, bell peppers, or green beans.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier casserole, add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce mixture.
- Double the recipe: If you’re feeding a larger crowd or want leftovers, simply double the ingredients and cook in a larger baking dish, adjusting the cooking time if necessary.
- Add herbs and spices: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add an extra layer of flavor. You can sprinkle them on top before serving.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, to save time. Just shred it and mix it with the sauce as usual.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the day before, cover it, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it in the air fryer for a few extra minutes to heat through and crisp up the top.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Simply assemble it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook according to the instructions.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, roasted potatoes, or garlic bread. For a refreshing drink, try serving it with a chilled iced tea or a light white wine.
Enjoy your Air Fryer Chicken Casserole! It’s an easy and delicious dish that brings comfort in every bite.