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Country Farm Chicken Casserole

Country Farm Chicken Casserole
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Country Farm Chicken Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy flavorful sauce topped with melted cheese and a crispy golden crust. Ideal for family dinners, this one-dish meal combines rustic charm with simple wholesome ingredients for an unforgettable homemade experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk

Thickening and Toppings

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch (use gluten-free alternative if needed)
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan; optional)
  • 1 cup crumbled crackers or breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)

Herbs and Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients for Variations

  • Finely chopped jalapeños or pinch of cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
  • Spinach or kale, stirred in before baking (for added greens)
  • Dairy-free cream alternatives (such as coconut milk) and dairy-free cheese substitutes for dairy-free option
  • Mushrooms or additional seasonal vegetables as a vegetarian substitute for chicken

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken and vegetables: Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season lightly with salt and pepper. Chop carrots, celery, and onion uniformly for even cooking. Mince the garlic. These form the hearty base of your casserole.
  2. Sauté aromatics and chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook until fragrant and translucent. Add the chicken pieces, searing until browned but not fully cooked through.
  3. Make the creamy sauce: Sprinkle flour evenly over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream until smooth. Cook until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
  4. Combine everything and add toppings: Transfer the creamy chicken and vegetable mixture to a casserole dish. Stir in peas and half of the shredded cheese for a melty interior. Top with remaining cheese and a layer of crumbled crackers or breadcrumbs for a golden, crunchy finish.
  5. Bake until bubbly and golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly, signaling readiness to serve.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even cooking and smooth sauce thickening.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken in the skillet as it will continue cooking in the oven, keeping it juicy.
  • Customize the crunchy topping by tossing breadcrumbs with melted butter and herbs before baking.
  • Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking so it sets up and serves more cleanly.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness effectively.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken casserole, comfort food, creamy chicken dish, family dinner, one-dish meal, hearty casserole

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/country-farm-chicken-casserole/