Indulge in the ultimate comfort evening with a Cheesy Chicken Casserole paired with the novel "Where the Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens and a refreshing Classic Mojito cocktail. The rich, hearty casserole complements the deeply engrossing narrative of Kya's resilience and solitude in the marshes of North Carolina, while the bright and invigorating flavors of mint and lime in the mojito add a refreshing contrast. This combination offers a heartwarming and refreshing experience, perfect for unwinding and getting lost in a riveting story.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, and chopped onion. Mix well.
- Season the Mixture: Add the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Where the Crawdads Sing
A gripping, atmospheric novel about a lonely girl named Kya, who grows up in the marshes of North Carolina. As she becomes the subject of town rumors and whispers about her wild habits, Kya becomes deeply connected to the natural world around her. Her life is thrown into disarray when a town's popular man is found dead, and all eyes turn to the mysterious Marsh Girl.
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING PHENOMENON—NOW A MAJOR MOTION PICTURE! More than 18 million copies sold worldwide A Reese’s Book Club Pick A Business Insider Defining Book of the Decade “I can't even express how much I love this book! I didn't want this story to end!”—Reese Witherspoon “Painfully beautiful.”—The New York Times Book Review For years, rumors of the “Marsh Girl” have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when handsome Chase Andrews is found dead, the locals immediately suspect Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl. But Kya is not what they say. Sensitive and intelligent, she has survived for years alone in the marsh that she calls home, finding friends in the gulls and lessons in the sand. Then the time comes when she yearns to be touched and loved. When two young men from town become intrigued by her wild beauty, Kya opens herself to a new life—until the unthinkable happens. Where the Crawdads Sing is at once an exquisite ode to the natural world, a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, and a surprising tale of possible murder. Owens reminds us that we are forever shaped by the children we once were, and that we are all subject to the beautiful and violent secrets that nature keeps.
Discussion Questions
- What are the major themes in the book and how do they intertwine with Kya's character development?
- How does the setting of the marshland contribute to the overall mood of the book?
- Discuss the significance of the title, 'Where the Crawdads Sing'.
- How does Kya’s relationship with her family impact her interactions with others in the book?
- What role does nature play in Kya’s life and how does it shape her identity?
- How does Delia Owens use imagery to evoke emotion and create a sense of place?
- In what ways does the novel explore issues of socio-economic disparity and prejudice?
- Discuss the impact of loneliness and isolation on Kya’s character and life choices.
- How do Kya’s relationships with Tate and Chase contrast and shape her perspective on love?
- What is your interpretation of the ending, and do you feel justice was served?
Authors:
Delia Owens
ISBN: 0735219095
Publisher: Penguin
Published Date: 2018-08-14
ISBN: 0735219095
Publisher: Penguin
Published Date: 2018-08-14
Classic Mojito
A refreshing cocktail traditionally served over ice, the Mojito combines the sweetness of sugar and the refreshingness of mint, for a perfect pairing with rich and hearty meals like a cheesy casserole.
Ingredients
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 2 to 4 fresh mint sprigs
- Soda water
- Lime slice or mint sprig for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Muddle mint leaves and sugar in a glass to release the mint oils and dissolve the sugar.
- Add the lime juice and rum, and fill the glass with ice.
- Top off with soda water and stir gently.
- Garnish with a slice of lime and sprig of mint.
- Serve immediately.