The purpose of this article is to guide you through the process of making this tasty casserole, providing clear instructions and helpful tips along the way. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, you’ll find that this dish is both enjoyable to make and eat.
What is Chicken Pot Pie Bubble Up Casserole?
Chicken Pot Pie Bubble Up Casserole is a fun and easy twist on the classic chicken pot pie. Instead of a pie crust, this casserole uses biscuit dough that puffs up while baking, creating a soft and fluffy topping.
Unlike traditional chicken pot pie, which has a crust on top and bottom, this casserole has only a biscuit topping, making it quicker to prepare. The “bubble up” term refers to how the biscuit dough rises and creates a light, airy texture during baking.
Ingredients Needed
To make Chicken Pot Pie Bubble Up Casserole, you will need the following main ingredients:
- Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken is the main protein. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Vegetables: Common choices include carrots, peas, and corn. You can use fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables.
- Creamy Sauce Components: This usually includes cream of chicken soup and milk, which create a rich and creamy filling.
- Biscuit Dough: You can use store-bought refrigerated biscuit dough, which saves time.
Optional Additions and Variations
You can add ingredients like cheddar cheese for extra flavor or herbs like thyme for added freshness.
Tips for Selecting Quality Ingredients
When choosing your chicken, look for fresh or high-quality rotisserie chicken. For vegetables, fresh or frozen options are great. For the creamy sauce, choose a good brand of cream of chicken soup to ensure a tasty filling.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparing the Chicken
- If using raw chicken, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes. Let it cool, then shred it into small pieces.
Assembling the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, your choice of vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Mix well until everything is coated with the sauce.
Incorporating the Biscuit Dough
- Open the biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Gently fold the biscuit pieces into the chicken mixture. This will help create that “bubble up” effect when baked.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the chicken and biscuit mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
- Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. It is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Casserole
Ensuring Even Baking
To ensure your casserole bakes evenly, make sure to spread the filling and biscuit dough out in the baking dish. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the dish halfway through baking for uniform cooking.
Preventing Soggy Biscuits
To prevent the biscuit topping from becoming soggy, avoid overloading the filling with too much liquid. Make sure the sauce is creamy but not runny. Additionally, bake the casserole until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Preferences
You can easily adjust this recipe for different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure your soup is gluten-free. If you want a lower-calorie option, use reduced-fat soup and milk.
Make-Ahead and Storage Advice
You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply mix in the biscuit dough and follow the baking instructions. For leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Variations of Chicken Pot Pie Bubble Up Casserole
Vegetarian Version
For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and broccoli. You can also use vegetarian chicken substitutes to keep it hearty.
Using Different Meats
You can easily switch out the chicken for other meats. Turkey leftovers from Thanksgiving work great, or you can use ham for a different flavor. Just ensure the meat is cooked and shredded before adding it to the casserole.
Flavor Enhancements
To add more flavor, consider adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. These additions can elevate the taste of your casserole.
Alternative Biscuit Options
Instead of traditional biscuit dough, you can use crescent roll dough for a different texture. You can also try making homemade biscuits for a fresher taste.
Nutritional Information
Calorie Count per Serving
A typical serving of Chicken Pot Pie Bubble Up Casserole contains about 400-500 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used.
Macronutrient Breakdown
Each serving generally provides around 20-25 grams of protein, 30-35 grams of carbohydrates, and 15-20 grams of fat.
Tips for Making a Healthier Version
To make a healthier version, consider using lean chicken breast, low-fat cream of chicken soup, and whole wheat biscuit dough. Adding more vegetables can also increase the nutritional value while keeping the dish filling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use canned biscuits for this recipe?
Yes, canned biscuits are perfect for this recipe! They make preparation quick and easy. Just cut them into quarters as directed and fold them into the chicken mixture before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
Can I freeze the casserole for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and store it for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as instructed.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Chicken Pot Pie Bubble Up Casserole pairs well with simple sides like a green salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes. These sides complement the flavors of the casserole nicely.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free biscuit dough and ensure the cream of chicken soup is labeled gluten-free. You can also substitute regular broth with gluten-free broth for added assurance.
Conclusion
Chicken Pot Pie Bubble Up Casserole is a comforting, delicious dish that brings joy to family meals. Its easy preparation and hearty ingredients make it a favorite for many. I encourage you to try this recipe at home; it’s sure to be a hit with your loved ones!
We’d love to hear about your experiences making this casserole. Feel free to share your thoughts or any variations you try! Enjoy your cooking.
PrintChicken Pot Pie Bubble Up Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn; fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough (cut each biscuit into quarters)
- Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, fresh thyme, or other herbs for added flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- If using raw chicken, cook in a skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Let it cool, then shred into small pieces.
- Assemble the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate the Biscuit Dough:
- Open the biscuit dough and cut each biscuit into quarters. Gently fold the biscuit pieces into the chicken mixture. This will create the “bubble up” effect as it bakes.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and pour the chicken and biscuit mixture into it, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Notes
- Ensuring Even Baking: Spread the filling and biscuit dough evenly to avoid uneven baking. If your oven has hot spots, rotate the dish halfway through.
- Preventing Soggy Biscuits: Make sure not to overload the filling with liquid. The sauce should be creamy, not runny. Bake until biscuits are golden and cooked through.
- Make-Ahead and Storage: You can prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate. When ready to bake, mix in the biscuit dough and follow the baking instructions. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Optional Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and broccoli or use vegetarian chicken substitutes.
- Different Meats: Swap chicken for turkey or ham for a different flavor.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add spices like paprika, garlic powder, or fresh herbs such as thyme and parsley.
- Biscuit Options: Try crescent roll dough or homemade biscuits for a different texture.