Nixon Chicken Casserole: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Nixon Chicken Casserole: a retro classic that’s making a delicious comeback! Remember those weeknight dinners that were both comforting and surprisingly easy to throw together? This is it. Forget complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen; this casserole is all about simple ingredients and maximum flavor.

While the name might conjure up images of the 1970s, the exact origins of Nixon Chicken Casserole are a bit of a mystery, lost to the annals of community cookbooks and potluck gatherings. Some speculate it gained popularity during the Nixon era due to its affordability and reliance on pantry staples – a reflection of the economic climate at the time. Regardless of its true history, this dish represents a time when home cooking was king, and families gathered around the table for a hearty, satisfying meal.

What makes this casserole so beloved? It’s the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The tender chicken, combined with the richness of cream of mushroom soup and the satisfying crunch of buttery crackers, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! You can easily prep it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights. So, dust off your casserole dish and get ready to experience a taste of nostalgia with this updated and utterly delicious Nixon Chicken Casserole recipe!

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 (1 ounce) package dry ranch dressing mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked rice (long grain or instant)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken:

Okay, let’s start with the chicken. You can cook it however you like – boiling, baking, or even using a rotisserie chicken from the store to save time. I usually prefer to bake mine because it’s super easy and keeps the chicken nice and moist.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the prepared dish.
4. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy!
5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here!
6. Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool slightly before shredding it with two forks. You can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for super quick shredding!

Mixing the Casserole Filling:

Now for the creamy, dreamy filling that makes this casserole so irresistible. This is where all the magic happens!

1. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Make sure everything is well blended.
2. Add the dry ranch dressing mix to the soup mixture and stir until it’s fully incorporated. This is what gives the casserole that signature Nixon Chicken flavor!
3. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked rice, and chopped green onions. Mix everything together until it’s evenly distributed.
4. Add the shredded chicken to the bowl and gently fold it into the soup mixture. Be careful not to overmix, you want to keep the chicken nice and tender.
5. Taste the mixture and add salt and pepper as needed. Remember, the ranch dressing mix already has some salt, so go easy on it at first.

Preparing the Ritz Cracker Topping:

The Ritz cracker topping is what gives this casserole that perfect crispy crunch. It’s so simple, but it adds so much texture and flavor!

1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Mix well until all the crackers are evenly coated with butter.
2. You can crush the Ritz crackers in a food processor, or simply place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin. I prefer the rolling pin method because it’s less cleanup!

Assembling and Baking the Casserole:

Alright, time to put it all together and bake this bad boy! The aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking is simply divine.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the bottom.
3. Pour the chicken and soup mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4. Sprinkle the Ritz cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum crunch!
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary.
6. Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set up a bit and prevent it from being too runny.

Tips and Variations:

Want to customize your Nixon Chicken Casserole? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add Vegetables: Stir in some cooked broccoli florets, peas, or carrots for added nutrients and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup mixture for a little kick.
• Cheese Please: Use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses.
• Creamier Texture: Add an extra dollop of sour cream or a splash of milk to the soup mixture for a creamier texture.
• Different Topping: Substitute the Ritz cracker topping with crushed potato chips, bread crumbs, or even fried onions.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom and chicken soups, gluten-free crackers, and ensure your ranch dressing mix is also gluten-free.
• Use Leftover Turkey: This recipe works great with leftover turkey instead of chicken! It’s a perfect way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions:

Nixon Chicken Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

• Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli are healthy and delicious accompaniments.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food pairing.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a perfect summertime side dish.
• Dinner Rolls: Warm dinner rolls are great for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Why This Recipe Works:

This Nixon Chicken Casserole recipe is a winner for several reasons:

• Easy to Make: It requires minimal effort and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
• Comfort Food Classic: It’s a warm, comforting, and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile: It can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Great for Leftovers: It’s just as delicious (if not more so) the next day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and weeknight dinners.

So there you have it – my go-to Nixon Chicken Casserole recipe. I hope you enjoy it as much as my family and I do! Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Nixon Chicken Casserole isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a comforting, flavorful experience that’s surprisingly simple to pull together. From the creamy, cheesy sauce to the tender chicken and satisfying crunch of the topping, every bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes. I truly believe this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters!

But why is this casserole a must-try? Beyond its deliciousness, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a can of drained, diced tomatoes or some sautéed mushrooms to the chicken mixture for an extra layer of flavor. Want to sneak in some veggies? Finely chopped broccoli or spinach would be a welcome addition. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

This Nixon Chicken Casserole is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. Steamed green beans or asparagus are also excellent choices. For a heartier meal, serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or rice.

Looking for variations? Consider using different types of cheese in the sauce. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack would be delicious, or you could add a touch of Parmesan for a more complex flavor. You can also experiment with different types of cream of soup. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery would both work well. If you’re short on time, you can even use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to speed up the preparation process.

For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the sour cream in the sauce. You can also use whole wheat crackers for the topping to add some extra fiber.

Time to Get Cooking!

I’m so excited for you to try this Nixon Chicken Casserole! It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as we do.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on it. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so adaptable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find it easy to follow and customize to your liking.

Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any changes to the recipe? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see what you create!

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly delicious and comforting meal. This Nixon Chicken Casserole is a guaranteed winner, and I know you’ll be making it again and again. Happy cooking! I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Let me know what you think!

---