Elevate your dinner table with the savory delight of our “Ultimate Chicken Casserole” recipe. This one-dish wonder is a symphony of flavors and textures, where tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce come together in perfect harmony. It’s a comforting embrace on a plate, offering both the convenience of a casserole and the soul-soothing taste of a homemade classic. Join us on a culinary journey that celebrates the ultimate in comfort and flavor.
Recipe :
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, or your choice)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red and green for color)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions :
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Saute the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, celery, and bell peppers. Cook until they become tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the unsalted butter, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked pasta, mixed vegetables, chopped parsley, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently stir to coat everything evenly.
5. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix the bread crumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake:
- Transfer the chicken casserole mixture to the greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Dish out generous portions of the Ultimate Chicken Casserole and savor the comforting blend of flavors and textures.
The Ultimate Chicken Casserole is a savory comfort food celebration, with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a creamy sauce working in perfect harmony. This one-dish wonder combines the ease of a casserole with the soul-satisfying flavor of a homemade classic.
As you savor each mouthwatering bite of this delectable dish, you will experience the ultimate in comfort and flavor. The Ultimate Chicken Casserole is a hearty and satisfying addition to your culinary repertoire, whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.