Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole (minus the fried onions), cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the onions just before baking, or bake uncovered an extra 10-15 minutes if cold.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Use cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, or make a quick béchamel sauce (butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream) for a fresher version.
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes. Poach or bake 3 cups of boneless chicken breasts, then shred or chop. This adds about 20-30 minutes to prep time.
How do I keep the fried onions crispy?
Sprinkle them on top only in the last 10 minutes of baking, or add them after the casserole comes out of the oven to preserve their crunch.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Freeze unbaked casseroles (without fried onions) up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and add 10-15 extra minutes to bake time. Add fried onions fresh before serving.