Baked Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Creamy Mozzarella Topping

This hearty baked casserole features tender chicken breast, earthy vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all brought together in a creamy egg and cream base and topped with golden melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners, this dish is comforting, nourishing, and full of delightful texture and flavor in every bite.

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 4
Cuisine: European-inspired comfort food

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

• 1 chicken fillet (approx. 200–250 g)

• 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic

• 1/3 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried dill

• Salt, to taste

For the Vegetable Base

• 4–5 potatoes, peeled and sliced

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

For the Creamy Egg Mixture

• 4 eggs

• 100 g cream (12% fat)

• 1 teaspoon dried dill

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

• 100 g mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Slice the chicken fillet into bite-sized pieces or thin strips. In a bowl, mix with dried garlic, black pepper, dried dill, and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat evenly and let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes. This helps infuse the meat with savory herbs and spice.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken is marinating, peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds. Chop the onion, dice the celery stalks, mince the garlic, and chop the red bell pepper. These vegetables will add body, crunch, and a colorful variety of flavors to the casserole.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Base
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). In a large baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes evenly on the bottom. Add the marinated chicken, then scatter the onion, celery, garlic, and bell pepper evenly over the top. This creates a vibrant and flavorful foundation for the creamy custard.

Step 4: Make the Egg-Cream Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, dried dill, and salt until smooth. This mixture will bind the ingredients and create a rich, fluffy texture as it bakes. Pour the mixture evenly over the vegetables and chicken in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. The egg mixture should begin to set and the vegetables should soften.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Final Bake
After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Slice into portions and enjoy warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 390 kcal

• Protein: 27 g

• Fat: 22 g

• Carbohydrates: 20 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 3 g

• Sodium: Moderate

• Cholesterol: 210 mg

Origins and Popularity

This dish draws on classic European comfort food traditions, combining hearty ingredients like potatoes and chicken with a creamy egg base—similar to a crustless quiche or a rustic gratin. What sets it apart is the inclusion of herbs like dill, aromatic garlic, and a crisp cheesy topping. These flavors are common in Eastern European kitchens, where casseroles are practical, flavorful, and beloved for feeding families with warmth and satisfaction.

Reasons to Love This Recipe

• Simple to prepare with wholesome, accessible ingredients

• One-dish meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners

• Customizable with seasonal vegetables or different cheeses

• Kid-friendly yet elegant enough for guests

• Balanced and filling, combining protein, fiber, and healthy fats

Health Benefits

• Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, ideal for muscle repair and satiety

• Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline and vitamin D

• Potatoes and vegetables offer fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and antioxidants

• Dill and parsley have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits

• Cheese, when used in moderation, adds calcium and a satisfying finish

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a green salad and vinaigrette to add freshness and acidity

• Pair with steamed green beans or broccoli for extra vegetables

• Add a side of sourdough bread or rye toast for dipping into the creamy base

• Pair with sparkling water, herbal tea, or a crisp white wine

• Drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce or herbed sour cream for a richer experience

Cooking Tips

• Use firm potatoes (like Yukon Gold) that hold shape well when baked

• To save time, pre-boil the potato slices for 5 minutes to reduce baking time

• You can prepare the dish ahead, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving

• For extra crunch, top with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and herbs before the final bake

• Let the dish rest after baking for easier slicing and better texture

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the egg mixture

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini

• Cheese Swap: Use gouda, cheddar, or feta for different flavors

• Low-carb Version: Replace potatoes with sliced zucchini or cauliflower

• Add Grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or rice for extra bulk and texture

Conclusion

This Baked Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Creamy Mozzarella Topping is the definition of comfort food done right—wholesome, warm, and full of vibrant flavors. It’s a simple dish that brings together classic ingredients and transforms them into something hearty, rich, and irresistibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or feeding guests on the weekend, this casserole delivers nourishment, flavor, and joy to every plate. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adapt to your personal taste or whatever’s in season.

FAQ

1. Can I use cooked chicken instead of raw?
Yes, use pre-cooked or leftover chicken. Add it with the vegetables before pouring in the egg mixture.

2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

3. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes. Cool completely, cut into portions, and freeze. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

4. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, add mushrooms, zucchini, peas, or spinach depending on your preference.

5. What cream can I substitute if I don’t have 12%?
Use heavy cream, half-and-half, or even full-fat milk as a replacement.

6. How do I make it dairy-free?
Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. The dish still turns out creamy and flavorful.

7. How do I prevent the egg mixture from curdling?
Bake at a consistent temperature and avoid overbaking. The custard should just set.

8. What’s the best pan to use?
A ceramic or glass baking dish works best for even heat distribution and easy serving.

9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Adjust baking time accordingly.

10. What’s the best cheese for extra flavor?
Mozzarella for melt, Parmesan for depth, or a mix of smoked cheeses for added richness.