Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole with Vegetables

Introduction

Chicken casseroles are a timeless favorite for families seeking comfort food that is both nutritious and easy to prepare. This Easy Chicken Casserole with Vegetables is not only a delightful crowd-pleaser but also perfect for meal prepping. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, this recipe is a winner for weeknight dinners. In this article, you’ll learn how to make this wholesome dish with detailed steps, tips, and ingredient substitutions.

Chicken casseroles date back to the 19th century when cooks sought convenient ways to combine leftovers into one hearty dish. Over the years, casseroles have evolved into a versatile meal that caters to every taste, from classic tuna bakes to this vegetable-packed chicken version. Perfect for all skill levels, this casserole proves that comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or penne pasta
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup frozen peas

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cook the pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Steam broccoli, carrots, and peas for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. Shred the chicken: Use leftover chicken or shred a rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

1. Melt butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add flour: Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Add liquids: Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Thicken the sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer until thickened.
5. Add seasonings and cheese: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, steamed vegetables, and cheese sauce. Mix until well coated.
2. Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Prepare topping: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter.
2. Sprinkle topping: Evenly distribute the topping over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbling.

Tips and Variations This Easy Chicken Casserole with Vegetables

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with cooked chickpeas or tofu.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary into the sauce for extra flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Nutrition Information FOR This Easy Chicken Casserole with Vegetables

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 12g

Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole with Vegetables

laylas recipes

This Easy Chicken Casserole with Vegetables is a healthy and comforting dish, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Packed with protein, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken rotisserie chicken works well
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni or penne pasta
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Ingredients: Cook the pasta according to package instructions, steam the vegetables until tender, and shred the chicken.
• Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk and chicken broth, stirring until thickened. Add seasonings and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
• Assemble the Casserole: Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, vegetables, and sauce in a large bowl. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
• Add the Topping: Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
• Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

• For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
• Make ahead by refrigerating overnight and baking before serving.
• Customize with additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.

Keyword Easy Chicken Casserole, Healthy Dinner Recipes, High-Protein Casserole, Vegetable Casserole

External Links for Inspiration

• Learn more about how to make homemade breadcrumbs.
• Discover the benefits of meal prepping casseroles.
• Explore 10 Creative Casserole Ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Casserole with Vegetables is versatile, nutritious, and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this dish proves that healthy eating can be both enjoyable and effortless.

From its creamy sauce to the crunchy topping, every bite offers a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Try it out, share your experience, and enjoy the comfort of a homemade casserole. For more inspiration, explore 30 Easy Dinner Recipes.

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