This Layered Chicken and Vegetable Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering. Made with tender chicken breast, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a flavorful and satisfying meal. Easy to assemble and bake, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- For the Casserole:
- Bacon: 100 g (3.5 oz), chopped
- Potatoes: 750 g (1.65 lbs), peeled and diced
- Water: Enough to boil the potatoes
- Salt: To taste
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Mushrooms: 200 g (7 oz), sliced
- Chicken breast: 450 g (1 lb), diced
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Dried garlic: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: To taste
- Bell pepper: ½, diced
- Carrots: 1, grated
- Sour cream: 150 g (5.3 oz)
- For the Vegetable Garnish:
- Butter: 30 g (1 oz)
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Bacon (leftovers): From above
- Tomatoes: 2, diced
- Bell peppers: 1, diced
- Cucumber: 1, diced
- Spinach: 1 cup, roughly chopped
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Zucchini: 1 small, diced
- Lemon juice: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Directions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain and mash with a little olive oil, salt, and butter until smooth.
- Cook the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon and fry until crispy. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté mushrooms until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Add diced chicken breast to the skillet and cook until golden. Season with salt, dried garlic, basil, and black pepper.
- Stir in chopped onion, bell pepper, and grated carrot. Cook until softened.
- Mix in sour cream and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a greased baking dish, layer the mashed potatoes, followed by the chicken and vegetable mixture, and then mushrooms.
- Top with the cooked bacon and a sprinkle of cheese, if desired.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Prepare the Vegetable Garnish:
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent.
- Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, spinach, and parsley. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in zucchini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Plate slices of the casserole with the sautéed vegetables on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
- Pair with a light soup for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with a little extra olive oil or garnish with parsley for presentation.
Cooking Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking.
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add grated cheese on top of the casserole for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken Breast: High in protein and low in fat, promoting muscle growth and repair.
- Potatoes: Provide carbohydrates for energy and are rich in potassium.
- Vegetables: Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber for overall health.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free (ensure sour cream and seasonings are gluten-free)
- Adaptable for dairy-free diets by using plant-based butter and cream.
Nutritional Facts (Per serving, assuming 6 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines creamy, savory, and fresh flavors in one dish.
- Great for meal prep or family dinners.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
- A satisfying and balanced meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Conclusion
This Layered Chicken and Vegetable Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish, perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy potatoes, juicy chicken, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Try it today and enjoy a cozy, homemade dinner with your loved ones!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes add a delightful sweetness to the dish. - What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt or heavy cream are excellent substitutes. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and omit the bacon. - How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
Ensure the vegetables are cooked and drained well before assembling. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate. Bake just before serving. - What cheese works best for topping?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan are great options. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warm or use a microwave. - Can I use canned vegetables?
Yes, but drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. - What can I serve with this casserole?
Pair it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. - Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, freeze before or after baking. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Enjoy preparing and sharing this delightful casserole with family and friends! 😊