A hearty and delicious casserole featuring tender chicken fillets, layers of vegetables, and a cheesy topping. This recipe is perfect for family dinners and is packed with flavor and nutrition.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 eggs
- 150 ml (⅔ cup) milk or cream
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- Pepper, to taste
- 800 g (1.75 lbs) chicken fillet
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 small onions, thinly sliced
- 5 potatoes, thinly sliced into circles
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 sprig dill, chopped
- 110 g (1 cup) grated cheese
- Olive oil or butter for greasing
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- In a bowl, whisk 3 eggs with 150 ml milk or cream.
- Season with salt, sweet paprika, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the chicken fillets with a meat mallet to tenderize them.
- Rub the fillets with minced garlic, then season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.
- Layer 1: Spread a layer of sliced onions on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Layer 2: Add a layer of sliced potatoes over the onions. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Layer 3: Add the sliced red bell peppers. Sprinkle chopped dill on top.
- Layer 4: Place the chicken fillets on top of the vegetables.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cheese
- Lay the sliced tomatoes over the chicken fillets.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 180°C (356°F) for 60 minutes.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake Again
- Remove the casserole from the oven and uncover it.
- Sprinkle most of the grated cheese over the casserole and save some for the top layer.
- Add another layer of tomatoes and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Increase the oven temperature to 210°C (410°F) and bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a complete meal with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for a hearty dinner.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the potatoes are thinly sliced for even cooking.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken fillets in garlic and herbs for 30 minutes before assembling the dish.
- Use your favorite cheese blend, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken Fillet: High-quality protein for muscle repair and growth.
- Vegetables: Provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber for overall health.
- Eggs and Cheese: Add protein and calcium for strong bones.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free
- High-protein
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A complete, hearty meal in one dish.
- Layers of tender chicken and vegetables topped with gooey cheese.
- Perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Conclusion
This Layered Chicken and Vegetable Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare. With its tender chicken, creamy layers, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it at your next dinner and enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of fillets? Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well too.
- Can I substitute cream with something lighter? Yes, use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Try zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
- How can I make this dish spicier? Add chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture.
- What type of cheese works best? Mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of both is ideal.
- Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, freeze cooked portions for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- How do I prevent the potatoes from being undercooked? Slice them thinly and ensure they are evenly layered.
- Can I skip the foil step? The foil helps steam the ingredients for even cooking, but you can skip it if you want a crispier result.
Enjoy this hearty and satisfying casserole for any occasion!