Description
A cozy Chicken Casserole that’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for chilly evenings, featuring seasonal ingredients and savory flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or oven-roasted)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 2 cups mixed seasonal vegetables (carrots, diced squash, or green beans)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or a creamy non-dairy alternative
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or a melty cheese blend
- 2 cups cooked rice, pasta, or cubed potatoes
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or oil.
- Sauté the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add diced onion, and cook until translucent (about 4–5 minutes). Add garlic and mushrooms; cook another 2–3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute to cook the raw flavor out. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk until smooth. Stir in thyme, paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer until thickened slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded chicken, cooked rice (or pasta/potatoes), mixed vegetables, and half the cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top. For extra crunch, dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
- Let the Chicken Casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use well-seasoned chicken for deep flavor. Don’t overcook starch; if using pasta, cook slightly less than al dente. Ensure milk is at room temperature before adding to the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American