Chicken casserole is a delightful comfort item that can be served for any meal of the day. It is one of those comfort foods that can help brighten up a lousy day.
Whether it’s for dinner, lunch, or breakfast, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. But even the most delicious casseroles can get boring when served with the same old side dishes every time. So, what to serve with chicken casserole?
Here we’ve curated a list of creative and delicious side dishes that will ideally complement your chicken casserole. From salads to vegetables to grains, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into these tasty options!
What is a chicken casserole? What does chicken casserole taste like?
A chicken casserole is a popular one-dish meal typically made up of cooked chicken and vegetables, either in a creamy sauce or broth.
It’s often combined with various other ingredients, such as rice, pasta, herbs, or spices, to make it a more flavorful and filling dish. Depending on the recipe, it can be served over rice, noodles, potatoes, or even toast.
Chicken casseroles generally have a savory flavor due to the combination of ingredients like onions and celery that are typically included in the recipe. Herbs such as thyme and oregano also add to their flavor profile.
The creamy sauce or broth used to bind the ingredients together adds richness and creaminess to the overall taste of the dish. Depending on the ingredients used, it can have a mild or spicy flavor.
Overall, chicken casserole is an easy and delicious way to make a hearty meal that everyone can enjoy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike!
With its savory flavors and creamy texture, chicken casserole is sure to be a hit with all ages. Enjoy!
Best Sides to serve with chicken casserole
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables like seasoned carrots, bell peppers, and squash can bring out their natural sweetness and add a pop of bright color to the dish. Plus, getting in some veggies will even make this meal a little healthier!
Discover More: Best vegetables to serve with sweet and sour chicken
2. Garlic Bread
A crusty loaf of garlic bread can be the perfect sidekick to soak up all the delicious gravy of the casserole. Plus, the garlic-infused bread adds a nice flavor.
3. Creamy Coleslaw
Coleslaw is the ultimate side dish for any casserole meal. Add a creamy sauce mixed with vinegar, sugar, salt, and mustard seeds to your finely shredded cabbage and carrots, and it will add a perfect tangy flavor to your palate.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Cooked sweet potatoes can also give a nice twist to your chicken casserole meal. They’re nutritious, delicious, and perfect to bake in the oven while the casserole is cooking. (Recipe)
Just split open the sweet potatoes and add a dollop of butter or sour cream, sprinkle some salt, and serve.
5. Mixed Green Salad
A fresh mixed green salad can be a great complement to the heavy and rich flavors of the chicken casserole.
You can add different veggies like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers and top it off with a simple homemade dressing of olive oil, honey and lemon juice.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and Balsamic Glaze
If you’re looking for a side dish that’s packed with flavor, this is it. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half and roast them perfectly in the oven with bacon until they get crispy.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately. The combination of crispy sprouts, salty bacon, and sweet glaze is a match made in heaven.
7. Mediterranean Couscous Salad
A light and refreshing salad is always an ideal choice to accompany casseroles. This Mediterranean couscous salad is a perfect fit.
Mix cooked and cooled couscous with fresh tomatoes, red onions, cucumber, feta cheese, and kalamata olives.
Drizzle with a lemony vinaigrette, and you have a healthy and colorful salad that complements the savory flavors in your casserole.
8. Garlic Knots
Adding garlic knots to your meal can take your dish to a whole new level. These simple snacks are easy to make, and they only require a handful of ingredients.
Make a pizza dough, cut it into strips and tie each strip into garlic knots. Bake until golden brown and crispy, and brush with garlic butter.
Serve hot to complement your warm and hearty chicken casserole.
9. Sauteed Green Beans with Crunchy Onions
Instead of steaming plain green beans, why not saute them with some onion rings? This side dish is as easy as it gets.
Cook fresh green beans in a skillet with olive oil until they’re tender-crisp. Top with store-bought fried onions for an extra crunch.
10. Cheesy Hasselback Potatoes
If you’re a potato lover, these cheesy hasselback potatoes are a must. Cut some small potatoes in half and slice them thinly.
Place them on a baking sheet and brush them with garlic butter. Sprinkle with the cheese of your choice and bake for 30 minutes.
You’ll get crispy golden potatoes with a creamy center that complements the chicken casserole perfectly.
11. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes are another great option for pairing with chicken casserole. The potatoes provide a comforting texture that pairs well with the hearty dish.
Explore More: Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Twice-Baked Potatoes
12. Macaroni and Cheese
Mac and cheese is an easy way to add some cheesy deliciousness to your chicken casserole meal. This classic combo never disappoints!
13. Baked Apples
Core some apples, stuff them with butter, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg, then bake them until softened. Serve as a side for your casserole for a sweet and savory experience.
14. Buttered Noodles
Buttered noodles are an easy way to add starch to the plate without overwhelming it with carbs. The butter adds a richness that pairs wonderfully with chicken casserole’s flavor profile.
15. Green Beans
Green beans are a classic accompaniment to many main dishes, including chicken casserole! Add them steamed or sautéed in garlic butter for extra flavor and texture.
16. Biscuits
Flaky, buttery biscuits provide a great contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole. Serve them warm for an extra comforting touch.
17. Garlicky Roasted Broccoli
Roast broccoli and garlic together in the oven until golden brown and tender, then add as a side dish to your chicken casserole. The combination of crunchy veggies and roasted garlic is sure to please!
18. Sweet Potato Fries
For something completely different, try making sweet potato fries with your chicken casserole!
The sweetness and crunch of the fries provide a mouthwatering contrast to the savory flavors of the dish. Enjoy with ketchup or ranch dressing for even more flavor.
What salad goes with a chicken casserole?
When it comes to finding the ideal accompaniment for a hearty chicken casserole, salads are a go-to option for many. Not only do they provide a refreshing burst of flavor and texture, but they also offer a host of health benefits to balance out the indulgence of the casserole.
Here are our top picks for five of the best salads to serve alongside your next chicken casserole:
1. Caesar Salad
This classic salad is a favorite for a reason. The crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons complement the rich flavors of the casserole perfectly.
2. Greek Salad
Packed with fresh veggies like cucumbers, tomatoes, and bell peppers, this salad is a colorful and refreshing side dish that’s sure to please.
The salty feta cheese and briny olives add a distinctively Mediterranean flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
3. Kale Salad
For a more modern twist on your salad, try a kale salad. The hearty kale leaves stand up well to the weight of the casserole, and the addition of nuts and dried fruit add a satisfying crunch and sweetness.
4. Spinach Salad
Spinach is another leafy green that pairs well with chicken casserole. The mild flavor of the spinach allows the other ingredients, such as the juicy cherry tomatoes and crumbled bacon, to shine.
5. Roasted Vegetable Salad
If you want to up the ante on the health factor, a roasted vegetable salad is the way to go.
Roasting veggies like sweet potatoes, beets, and Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a delicious caramelized flavor.
What are the best flavors to go with a chicken casserole?
There are many different flavors that can be added to a chicken casserole to make it extra tasty.
For a classic flavor, try adding garlic and herbs like thyme or oregano. You can also use diced onion, mushrooms, red bell peppers, carrots, celery and other vegetables of your choice.
Add some canned tomatoes for a hint of acidity, as well as white wine or sherry for an additional depth of flavor.
Finally, top off the casserole with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs before baking in the oven. With these ingredients combined, you’ll have a delicious chicken casserole that will please any palate!
Learn More: What To Serve With Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
How do you jazz up chicken casserole?
There are many ways to jazz up a traditional chicken casserole. Here are some ideas:
1. Spice it up by adding chili peppers or your favorite spices, such as cumin, coriander and paprika.
2. Add vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
3. Use a flavorful stock base instead of water for an extra layer of taste.
4. Top the dish with cheese just before baking for a creamy finish.
5. Place strips of bacon on top of the dish for extra crunchiness and flavor (or mix them into the ingredients).
6. Season with herbs such as thyme, oregano and rosemary to enhance the flavor.
7. Add a swirl of pesto or sun-dried tomato paste to give the dish extra richness and complexity.
8. Mix in some olives or artichoke hearts for an interesting Mediterranean flair.
9. Sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds before baking for texture and added crunchiness.
10. Top off the finished casserole with freshly chopped parsley or other herbs for color and flavor.
These are just a few ideas that can help you make your chicken casserole more exciting and flavorful! Enjoy!
Find Out More: Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken and Rice Casserole
How do you display chicken casserole on a platter?
Chicken casserole is a classic dish that is ideal for family dinners and gatherings with friends.
When it comes to presenting this delicious meal on a platter, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that it looks as good as it tastes.
Firstly, it’s important to choose the right type of platter. A large, oval-shaped platter works well for chicken casseroles as it provides enough space to showcase the dish and its ingredients.
If you don’t have an oval-shaped platter, a rectangular or square-shaped one will also work.
Once you have your platter, it’s time to think about how to arrange the chicken casserole on it.
Start by placing the chicken pieces in the center of the platter, arranging them in an attractive pattern. Then, use a spoon to carefully scoop out portions of the casserole and place them around the chicken, making sure to include some of the vegetables and sauce.
To add a hint of color and freshness to the dish, you can also arrange some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, around the edges of the platter. This not only adds to the visual appeal of the dish but also enhances its flavor.
Finally, make sure to serve your chicken casserole on the platter while it’s still warm. This not only ensures that the dish is at its best in terms of taste and texture but also adds to the overall experience of enjoying this delicious meal with family and friends.
Wrap Up on what to serve with chicken casserole
Chicken casserole is a classic dish that’s enjoyed by many, but serving the same old sides can get boring. Don’t be afraid to get creative with what to serve with chicken casserole!
Add some roasted vegetables, a crusty loaf of garlic bread, creamy coleslaw, baked sweet potatoes and, for a lighter side, mix green salad.
These delicious side dishes will have your taste buds singing and will elevate your chicken casserole eating experience to a whole new level.
So, the next time you’re craving comfort food, switch it up with these creative sides, and you’ll keep asking for seconds!
FAQs
How much chicken casserole per person?
Chicken casserole is one of those classic comfort foods that are perfect for feeding a crowd. But when it comes to portion sizes, how much chicken casserole should you serve per person?
The amount of chicken casserole per person can vary depending on various factors, such as the size of the serving dish, the appetites of your guests, and whether or not you’re serving other dishes alongside the casserole.
As a general rule of thumb, you can plan for around 6-8 ounces of chicken casserole per person. This would be for a fairly substantial portion and assumes that you’re serving a range of sides and perhaps a salad or bread.
It’s important to remember that casserole dishes can be quite heavy and filling, so if you’re serving a particularly rich or hearty version of chicken casserole, you may want to aim for slightly smaller portion size.
On the other hand, if you’re serving a lighter version with lots of vegetables, you may be able to get away with slightly larger servings.
Ultimately, the best way to determine how much chicken casserole to serve per person is to take into account your own guests’ appetites and preferences.
You can also always err on the side of having a little extra, as leftovers can make for an easy and satisfying lunch or dinner the next day.
What to serve with chicken stuffing casserole?
If you’re wondering what to serve with your delicious chicken stuffing casserole, there are several great options to consider.
Firstly, a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a nice balance to the richness of the casserole.
Alternatively, steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans can offer a healthy and flavorful accompaniment.
For a heartier meal, consider serving the casserole with some crusty bread or dinner rolls to help soak up the creamy, savory sauce.
You could also add some mashed potatoes or rice pilaf to your plate to round out the meal and provide some additional texture and flavor.
Finally, to really take your chicken stuffing casserole to the next level, consider pairing it with a tasty white wine or light beer. A crisp, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy IPA can provide a great contrast to the bold and comforting flavors of the casserole.
What veggie goes with chicken and rice?
There are many vegetables that can pair well with chicken and rice, depending on your personal preferences and culinary preferences. Here are some popular options:
Broccoli
Broccoli is an ideal versatile vegetable that can be steamed, roasted, or stir-fried, and it complements the flavors of chicken and rice nicely. It adds a perfect crunch and freshness to the dish.
Carrots
Carrots add natural sweetness and color to a chicken and rice dish. They can be sliced or diced and sautéed, roasted, or boiled. They can also be used in a stir-fry or as part of a vegetable medley.
Peas
Peas are another great vegetable to pair with chicken and rice. They are sweet and tender and can be added to the dish during cooking or sprinkled on top as a garnish. Peas add a burst of color and flavor to the dish.
Bell peppers
Bell peppers come in various colors, such as red, yellow, orange, and green, and add a nice crunch and sweetness to chicken and rice. They can be sautéed, roasted, or stir-fried, and add a pop of color to the dish.
Spinach
Spinach is a leafy green that can be wilted or sautéed and added to chicken and rice for a burst of color and nutrition. It has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
Green beans
Green beans are a classic vegetable that can be blanched, sautéed, or roasted, and they add a crisp texture and fresh flavor to chicken and rice.
These are just a few examples of vegetables that can go well with chicken and rice. You can experiment with different combinations to suit your taste preferences and create a delicious and nutritious meal.
Can you serve casserole with rice?
Yes, you can certainly serve casserole with rice! Casseroles are often made with a combination of meat, vegetables, and a creamy or cheesy sauce and can be baked to create a delicious and comforting dish.
Rice can be a great accompaniment to a casserole as it can provide a complementary texture and help absorb the flavors of the casserole.
Here are a few examples of casseroles that can be served with rice:
1. Chicken and vegetable casserole
A classic chicken casserole made with cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce, such as a mushroom or cheese sauce, can be served over cooked rice.
The rice can help balance out the richness of the casserole and provide a satisfying base.
2. Tuna casserole
Tuna casserole typically includes canned tuna, noodles, and a creamy sauce, often with the addition of vegetables like peas and carrots.
Instead of noodles, you can serve the tuna casserole over rice for a different twist. The rice can provide a nice contrast to the creamy tuna mixture.
3. Beef and broccoli casserole
A beef and broccoli casserole made with chunks of beef, broccoli, and a savory sauce can be served over rice for a complete meal.
The rice can soak up the flavors of the sauce and provide a hearty base for the casserole.
4. Veggie and bean casserole
A vegetarian casserole made with a variety of vegetables, beans, and a flavorful sauce can be served with rice for a nutritious and filling meal.
The rice can add a nice texture and help round out the dish.
In general, rice can be a versatile side dish that complements the flavors and textures of many different types of casseroles. It can provide a neutral base that can absorb the flavors of the casserole and can also add some extra heartiness to the dish.
What potatoes to serve with chicken casserole?
When it comes to serving potatoes with chicken casserole, there are several options that can work well, depending on your taste preferences and the type of chicken casserole you’re making. Here are some popular choices:
1. Mashed potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes can be a classic and comforting choice to serve with chicken casserole. They pair well with casseroles that have a rich sauce or gravy, as the creamy potatoes can help balance out the flavors.
You can season the mashed potatoes with herbs, garlic, or cheese to add additional flavor.
2. Roasted potatoes
Roasted potatoes can add a crispy and savory element to chicken casserole. You can toss diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs and roast them in the oven until golden and crispy.
Roasted potatoes can be a great option for casseroles that have a lighter sauce or if you’re looking for a dish with more texture.
3. Potato gratin
Potato gratin, also known as scalloped potatoes, can be a delicious choice to serve with chicken casserole.
Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cheese, cream, and herbs, and baked until golden and bubbly, can add a rich and indulgent side dish to complement the flavors of the casserole.
4. Potato wedges
Crispy potato wedges can be a more casual option to serve with chicken casserole. Simply cut potatoes into wedges, toss them with oil and seasonings, and bake them in the oven until crispy. Potato wedges can be a great option for casseroles with a casual or rustic vibe.
5. Hasselback potatoes
Hasselback potatoes are thinly sliced potatoes that are roasted until crispy and golden, with a soft and creamy interior.
They can be a visually impressive and delicious option to serve with chicken casserole. You can season them with herbs, cheese, or garlic for extra flavor.
