This Chicken and Pineapple Casserole combines tender chicken, savory ham, sweet pineapple, and gooey mozzarella in a creamy, flavorful dish. Topped with a golden cheese crust, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s an irresistible mix of sweet and savory flavors that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Rest Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- Flour: 500 g (4 cups)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Milk: 250 ml (1 cup), warm
- Yeast: 10 g (2 teaspoons, instant yeast)
For the Filling:
- Chicken breast: 500 g (about 2 pieces), sliced
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
- Ham: 150 g, diced
- Canned pineapple: 200 g (drained)
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: To taste
- Pepper: To taste
For the Sauce:
- Eggs: 2 large
- Sour cream: 200 ml (¾ cup)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
Topping:
- Mozzarella: 200 g (2 cups), shredded
Directions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add warm milk and yeast, mixing to form a dough.
- Knead until smooth, then cover and let rise in a warm place for 30 minutes.
- Incorporate Butter into Dough:
- Mix melted butter into the dough, knead again, and let it rise for 1 hour in a warm place until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion until softened.
- Add chicken, season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 10 minutes until fully cooked.
- Stir in diced ham and pineapple, then set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Press the dough into a greased casserole dish, forming a slight edge.
- Spread the chicken-pineapple mixture evenly over the dough.
- Pour the sour cream sauce over the top.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Bake for 1 hour or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with garlic bread or a side of rice for a heartier meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added freshness.
Cooking Tips
- For a crispier crust, pre-bake the dough for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Use fresh pineapple for a sweeter, more natural flavor.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken provides lean protein for muscle repair and growth.
- Pineapple adds vitamin C and natural sweetness.
- Mozzarella contributes calcium and creaminess to the dish.
Dietary Information
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: 350
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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- Combines sweet and savory flavors in a unique and delicious way.
- Perfect for family meals or entertaining guests.
- Versatile and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- A comforting dish with a cheesy, golden topping that’s hard to resist.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Pineapple Casserole with Mozzarella is a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and creamy mozzarella come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this casserole is sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, ready-made pizza or bread dough works well and saves time. - What type of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?
Gouda, cheddar, or Parmesan are great alternatives. - Can I use fresh pineapple?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple adds a vibrant, natural sweetness. - How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Pre-bake the dough for 10 minutes before adding the filling. - Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Replace chicken and ham with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or other vegetables. - How can I make the dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce. - What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A fresh salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread are excellent choices. - Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, freeze it baked or unbaked. Thaw before reheating or baking. - How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Cover with foil during baking if the cheese browns too quickly. - Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious casserole with your loved ones! 😊