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**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Bake Time:** 25 minutes
**Total Time:** 40 minutes
**Servings:** 4-6
## Introduction
Welcome to our easy-to-follow guide on how to use up leftover pantry items and rotisserie chicken. We will show you how to turn these leftovers into a warm, delicious chicken casserole that’s perfect for family dinners. This savory dish transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal in just 40 minutes!
## Why Make This Recipe
You should make a pantry leftover chicken casserole when you have rotisserie chicken leftovers and a few items in your pantry you’d love to use. This recipe is perfect for reducing waste, saving time, and feeding the whole family a wholesome meal.
## How to Make Pantry Leftover Chicken Casserole
## Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded leftover rotisserie chicken
– 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can (10 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup cooked rice or pasta (like macaroni or penne)
– 1 cup mixed canned vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: a sprinkle of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
## Directions:
For a simple yet satisfying dish like our chicken casserole, the procedure is straightforward:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix together shredded chicken, cream soups, cooked rice or pasta, vegetables, milk, and garlic powder in a large bowl.
3. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×9 baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, if desired.
6. Bake for about 25 minutes until the top layer turns golden and bubbly.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving for the best texture and taste.
## How to Serve Pantry Leftover Chicken Casserole
Serve this warm and hearty casserole as a main dish for dinner. It pairs well with a fresh green salad and a loaf of crusty bread. Of course, don’t forget to enjoy it with family and friends!
## How to Store Pantry Leftover Chicken Casserole
Cover the casserole dish and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. When ready to consume, reheat it in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop until warm throughout.
## Tips to Make Pantry Leftover Chicken Casserole
– Use any kind of rotisserie chicken, or even turkey leftovers if you have them on hand.
– Feel free to add more vegetables if you so wish, or leave them out if you prefer.
– If you want a gluten-free version, consider using gluten-free cream soups and breadcrumbs.
## Variation (if any)
For a vegetarian variation, substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken, and use cream of mushroom soup alone or a blend of vegetable soup/broths as your base.
## FAQs
– **Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?** Absolutely! Just ensure they’re cooked properly before adding them to the mix.
– **What if I don’t have a 9×9 casserole dish?** You can use any similar-size baking dish you have on hand.
– **Can I substitute the cheese with a dairy-free option?** Yes. There are various dairy-free cheeses available in the market that will melt nicely on your casserole.