This hearty Baked Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Creamy Chili Garlic Sauce is a wholesome, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Combining juicy marinated chicken fillet, tender potatoes, lightly blanched broccoli, and sweet cherry tomatoes, it’s a complete meal that comes together beautifully in the oven. The casserole is enriched with a creamy egg and cream base and finished with a bubbly layer of cheese. On the side—or drizzled over the top—is a bold and tangy sour cream chili garlic sauce that ties all the savory flavors together with a gentle kick.
This dish offers everything you need in a well-balanced meal: protein, vegetables, and comfort in every forkful. It’s vibrant, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to seasonal produce or family preferences.
Preparation Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 10 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Cuisine
Modern European fusion with home-style comfort
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
-
3 eggs
-
Salt (to taste)
-
100 ml heavy cream
-
400 g chicken fillet, diced
-
Black pepper, to taste
-
½ teaspoon paprika
-
½ teaspoon dried basil
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
2–3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
-
½ teaspoon dried garlic
-
1 onion, finely chopped
-
1 carrot, peeled and sliced
-
1 cup broccoli florets
-
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
100 g shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or cheddar)
For the Creamy Chili Garlic Sauce:
-
2 tablespoons sour cream
-
1 teaspoon chili sauce
-
1 garlic clove, finely minced
-
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, a pinch of salt, and cream. Set aside. This will act as the custard-like binder for the casserole.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Dice the chicken fillet into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, basil, and olive oil. Mix thoroughly and let marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Season and Roast the Potatoes
Peel and chop the potatoes. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, dried garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. Spread on a baking tray and roast in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for 20 minutes or until slightly golden.
Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
While the potatoes roast, finely chop the onion and slice the carrot. Boil water and pour it over the broccoli florets. Let them steep for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease a glass or ceramic baking dish with olive oil. Add the marinated chicken, roasted potatoes, chopped onions, carrots, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes. Pour the egg and cream mixture over everything. Mix gently to distribute the custard and ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Bake the assembled casserole at 180°C (356°F) for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden and the casserole is firm.
Step 7: Make the Creamy Chili Garlic Sauce
In a small bowl, combine sour cream, chili sauce, minced garlic, and chopped dill. Stir well and let it chill slightly in the fridge while the casserole finishes baking.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve each portion with a spoonful of creamy chili garlic sauce on the side or over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
-
Calories: 420
-
Protein: 34g
-
Carbohydrates: 22g
-
Fat: 24g
-
Saturated Fat: 9g
-
Fiber: 4g
-
Sugar: 5g
-
Sodium: 560mg
Origin and Popularity
Casseroles like this one are beloved in European home cooking for their convenience, flexibility, and ability to stretch simple ingredients into a fulfilling family meal. This dish borrows from Mediterranean influences with olive oil, basil, and garlic, and adds a central European twist with the inclusion of carrots, potatoes, and creamy sauces. Its layered preparation and baked finish make it visually appealing and practically foolproof.
Reasons to Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about the ease and comfort of a casserole. This one delivers on all fronts—it’s loaded with vegetables, tender chunks of chicken, a light creamy custard, and a blanket of melted cheese. It’s customizable, satisfying, and easy to prep ahead. The creamy chili garlic sauce brings a fresh, tangy element that adds depth and keeps every bite exciting. It’s the kind of recipe that fits any season, occasion, or craving.
Health Benefits
-
High-Quality Protein: Chicken and eggs offer lean protein for energy and muscle support.
-
Vegetable Rich: Broccoli, carrot, onion, and tomatoes supply a spectrum of antioxidants and vitamins.
-
Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil contributes monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
-
Bone Strength: Cheese and sour cream provide calcium and vitamin D.
-
Immune Boosting: Garlic and fresh herbs like dill add antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm with a side of green salad or steamed green beans. Crusty bread or a light soup makes a great starter. This dish is satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple cucumber yogurt salad or lemon-dressed greens for contrast.
For a dinner party, portion it into ramekins and bake individually, topping each with a fresh herb sprig. A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements this dish beautifully.
Cooking Tips
-
Let the marinated chicken rest to fully absorb the flavors.
-
Pre-cook tougher vegetables (like carrots or potatoes) to ensure even baking.
-
Use parchment paper or lightly oil the dish to prevent sticking.
-
Try different cheese blends for varied flavor—mozzarella for creaminess, cheddar for sharpness.
-
Allow the casserole to rest before cutting—it will slice more cleanly and hold its shape.
Variations
-
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
-
Add Grains: Mix in cooked quinoa, bulgur, or rice for added texture.
-
Swap the Sauce: Instead of chili garlic, try tzatziki, pesto, or even a yogurt-lime drizzle.
-
Boost Greens: Add baby spinach or kale for a nutrient punch.
-
Make it Spicy: Increase the chili sauce or add chopped jalapeños for heat lovers.
Conclusion
This Baked Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Creamy Chili Garlic Sauce is a warm, homey dish that hits all the right notes—tender meat, roasted veggies, a soft cheesy top, and a luscious, tangy sauce that lifts the whole thing up. It’s a meal that’s both comforting and elegant, ideal for weeknights yet special enough for company. Easy to prep, satisfying to eat, and endlessly adaptable—this casserole is sure to become a go-to in your cooking rotation.
FAQ
1. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover it, and store in the fridge up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
3. What’s a good cheese alternative?
Try gouda, fontina, or a dairy-free vegan cheese.
4. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes—just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
5. How spicy is the sauce?
It has a mild kick. Adjust the chili sauce to your taste.
6. Is this keto-friendly?
It’s moderate-carb due to the potatoes, but you can substitute cauliflower to reduce carbs.
7. Can I add more protein?
Sure—top with a fried egg or include diced turkey or tofu.
8. How do I make this dairy-free?
Use plant-based cream, cheese, and sour cream substitutes.
9. Can I skip the eggs?
You’ll need a binder. Replace with a mix of plant-based milk and cornstarch or a vegan egg replacer.
10. What other herbs can I use?
Try thyme, rosemary, or chives for different herbal profiles.
Let me know if you’d like this optimized for Pinterest with a catchy title and SEO-rich description