Chicken and Biscuits – Easy Casserole

Chicken and Biscuits is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, juicy chicken smothered in a creamy, flavorful gravy, all topped with golden, flaky biscuits. The rich, savory chicken pairs perfectly with the light, buttery biscuits, creating a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.

What Is Chicken and Biscuits?

Chicken and biscuits is a dish that typically involves a creamy chicken filling, often with vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery, served on top of soft, pillowy biscuits. The combination of flavors—rich and savory chicken with crispy, buttery biscuits—makes it the ultimate comfort food. Think of it as a casserole with an irresistible biscuit topping, or a hearty stew that gets even better with each bite.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Chicken and Biscuits

To make sure your Chicken and Biscuits dish turns out perfect every time, here are a few helpful tips:

• Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: While chicken breasts are often used in chicken and biscuit recipes, using boneless, skinless chicken thighs will give you a juicier, more flavorful result. The thighs retain moisture better and add a richness to the dish that chicken breasts may lack.
• Make the Biscuit Dough from Scratch: There’s something so satisfying about fresh, homemade biscuits. While store-bought biscuits are quick and convenient, nothing beats the flavor and texture of homemade ones. The key to flaky biscuits is to keep your ingredients cold and avoid overworking the dough.
• Don’t Skip the Chicken Broth: A good chicken broth or stock is essential for creating the flavorful base of the chicken stew. Opt for a low-sodium broth to control the salt content, and feel free to use homemade stock for an even richer taste.
• Season Well: Don’t be afraid to season generously. Chicken and biscuits should be well-seasoned to ensure that the dish has a depth of flavor. Use a mix of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley, and don’t forget the garlic powder or onion powder to bring everything together.
• Let the Dish Rest: After baking, allow your Chicken and Biscuits to rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors to meld together and makes serving much easier. Plus, it allows the filling to thicken slightly.

Variations to Customize Your Chicken and Biscuits

While the classic version is a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to mix things up with your own variations. Here are a few ideas to make your Chicken and Biscuits even more exciting:

• Spicy Chicken and Biscuits: If you enjoy a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the chicken stew for a spicy twist. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika on the biscuit dough to give it an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian-friendly version, substitute the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, and zucchini. Add in some plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for extra texture.
• Cheesy Chicken and Biscuits: Add shredded cheddar cheese into the biscuit dough or sprinkle it on top of the chicken stew before baking for a cheesy, gooey layer that’s sure to impress.
• Creamy Garlic Sauce: For an extra layer of richness, use a creamy garlic sauce as the base for your chicken filling instead of a classic white gravy. This will give the dish a luxurious, velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the biscuits.
• Lighter Version: If you’re looking to lighten things up, use low-fat or dairy-free milk for the biscuit dough and swap out the heavy cream in the filling for a lighter cream or non-dairy alternative. You can also use chicken breast for a leaner option.

How to Serve Chicken and Biscuits

Chicken and Biscuits is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas on how to present and serve it:

• Classic Family Style: Serve the dish directly from the baking dish for a family-style meal. Simply scoop the creamy chicken filling into bowls and top with a warm, buttery biscuit. Serve with a side of sautéed greens or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
• Individual Servings: For a more elegant presentation, consider serving each portion in a small ramekin or individual casserole dish. This is especially ideal if you’re hosting guests and want to make each serving feel special.
• Brunch: Chicken and Biscuits can be a perfect brunch item, especially if you add some scrambled eggs or fresh fruit on the side. It’s a hearty, filling dish that will keep everyone satisfied.

How to Store Chicken and Biscuits

If you have leftovers (or you made extra to enjoy later), storing your Chicken and Biscuits is easy. Here’s what you need to know:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken and biscuits in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep the biscuits separate from the stew to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well for future meals. To freeze, place the chicken filling and biscuits in separate containers. When ready to eat, thaw the chicken filling in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Warm the biscuits in the oven for the best texture.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the chicken filling in a saucepan on low heat while covering it to retain moisture. Reheat the biscuits in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until they’re warm and slightly crisp on the outside.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it before cooking for even cooking. Frozen chicken may release more moisture, so you may need to adjust your cooking time and add a bit more seasoning.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in the filling? If you prefer a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free cream option such as coconut cream or almond milk.

Can I use store-bought biscuits? Absolutely! While homemade biscuits add a wonderful touch, store-bought biscuits are perfectly fine and make this recipe a lot quicker and more convenient. You can simply bake them according to the package instructions and serve them on top of the chicken filling.

How can I make this dish spicier? For an extra kick, you can add chili flakes or hot sauce to the chicken stew. If you’re using the biscuit dough from scratch, you can sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili powder on top for some added heat.

The Perfect Chicken and Biscuits: A Hearty Meal to Savor

Chicken and Biscuits is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. It’s a comforting dish that will bring joy to your table, and with the tips, variations, and serving suggestions provided here, you’ll have everything you need to create a mouthwatering version of this Southern classic. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its savory goodness and heartwarming appeal.

Other delicious chicken recipes to try:

• Alice Springs Chicken
• Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Buffalo Chicken