Looking for a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights? Enter the Hawaiian Chicken Casserole. This dish combines the savory flavors of chicken with the sweetness of pineapple, creating a delightful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients
To make the Hawaiian Chicken Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for color)
- 1 cup ham, diced (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or parsley
Preparations
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded or diced chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Cook the rice according to package instructions.
- Dice the bell peppers and ham (if using).
- Drain the pineapple chunks.
Assembly
- Layer the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, marinated chicken, pineapple chunks, diced bell peppers, ham, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Baking
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- If you prefer a more bubbly and crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.
- Serve the casserole hot, straight from the baking dish. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the entire dish back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Conclusion
The Hawaiian Chicken Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for home cooks, busy parents, and food enthusiasts alike. With its delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table.
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