This Hearty Vegetable and Chicken Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or as a dish to impress guests, this casserole is both delicious and nutritious. With a crispy breadcrumb topping, every bite is pure comfort.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella mix recommended)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower until softened (about 5–7 minutes).
- Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually add chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the cream, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken, frozen peas, and the prepared sauce. Mix well.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheese, spreading evenly, and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with a fresh side salad or crusty bread.
This Hearty Vegetable and Chicken Casserole is a perfect one-dish meal that’s simple to prepare yet loaded with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit. Try it today for a satisfying and heartwarming dinner!