Looking for a dish that brings the family together around the dinner table? This chicken and vegetable casserole is just what you need. It’s packed with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a creamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s the perfect way to sneak in those healthy greens while still satisfying those comfort food cravings.
Imagine the wonderful aroma wafting through your home as this casserole bakes to perfection. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal, and you can easily customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking to enjoy some leftovers, this dish fits the bill.
This recipe is a great option for busy weeknights, combining convenience and flavor in one delicious package. You might even find that this casserole becomes a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Comforting Ingredients
This chicken and vegetable casserole is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a satisfying meal. The star of this dish is, of course, the chicken, which provides a hearty base that pairs beautifully with a variety of colorful vegetables.
Bright green broccoli, vibrant orange carrots, and sweet peas not only enhance the flavor but also add a nutritional punch. Each bite is a combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables, ensuring that everyone at the table finds something they enjoy.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing this casserole is a straightforward process that doesn’t require extensive cooking skills. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal ready for the oven in no time. Start by mixing your cooked chicken with the vegetables in a large bowl.
The addition of cream of chicken soup and milk creates a creamy texture, making the casserole rich and comforting. Seasoning with garlic and onion powder further elevates the flavor, ensuring that each spoonful is packed with taste.
Layering for Flavor
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble the casserole. Pour the chicken and vegetable blend into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. The next step is to sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
This cheese not only adds flavor but also melts beautifully, forming a deliciously gooey layer that complements the crunchy topping perfectly. The combination of textures created by the melted cheese and crispy cracker topping is truly satisfying.
Baking to Golden Perfection
After assembling your casserole, cover it with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven. The initial covered baking allows the flavors to meld together without drying out the ingredients.
As the casserole bakes, the aroma fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Once the foil is removed, the dish continues to bake until the top turns beautifully golden and bubbly, signaling that it’s ready to be served.
A Presentation to Remember
Serving this casserole is just as enjoyable as preparing it. Once it’s out of the oven, allow the dish to cool for a few moments. This helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a touch of color and freshness on top.
Place the casserole on a rustic dining table, where the inviting sight of the bubbling dish will surely draw everyone in. It’s the kind of meal that brings family and friends together, perfect for sharing around the table with loved ones.
Versatility at Its Best
This chicken and vegetable casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on seasonal vegetables or personal preferences. Feel free to swap in different veggies or even add some spices for an extra kick.
This adaptability makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or gatherings, ensuring that you can cater to various tastes without much hassle. Plus, any leftovers can be stored and enjoyed the next day, making it a practical option for meal planning.
Hearty Chicken and Vegetable Casserole
This chicken and vegetable casserole is a comforting dish made with juicy chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy topping. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, offering a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please every palate.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup diced bell pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for topping
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Vegetable Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, broccoli, carrots, bell pepper, peas, cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated, then sprinkle over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
