An Irresistible Comfort: Creamy Chicken And Potato Casserole
On those hectic evenings when you crave a comforting meal without the fuss, this creamy chicken and potato casserole is your answer. Last night, we whipped it up in no time and let the oven do all the heavy lifting while we relaxed with family. The result? A fabulously creamy, cheesy dish with a hint of bacon that is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s hard to believe that such a delightful meal requires so little effort, making it a perfect way to enjoy a stress-free evening with loved ones.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal ready for the oven.
- Comforting Flavors: The creamy sauce and cheese combined with chicken and potatoes create a rich and satisfying dish.
- Family-Friendly: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a versatile option for family dinners.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 3-quart casserole dish
- Small mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breasts, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups strong cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon rosemary leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 3-quart casserole dish with cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and sugar. Stir in the thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set this mixture aside.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the diced chicken and sliced potatoes. Top with crumbled bacon and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
- Pour the seasoned cream mixture over the chicken and potatoes. Dot with cubes of butter.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the dish is bubbling.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly for uniform cooking.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting quality and flavor.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Add vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition and color.
- Swap out cheddar for a different cheese like Gruyère for a twist on flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
While exact numbers will vary based on portion sizes, each serving is a good source of protein and calcium, with moderate levels of fat and carbohydrates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it when ready.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add a richer flavor.
What can I serve with this dish? A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables would complement the casserole perfectly.
Conclusion
We hope you’ll give this creamy chicken and potato casserole a try and discover how easy it is to create a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort. Share your experience and any tweaks you make to the recipe in the comments—your feedback is always welcome!