Hearty Herb Chicken Casserole

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 25 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
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If you're looking for a comforting, fail-proof dinner that can please a crowd or simply make a Tuesday night feel special, this Hearty Herb Chicken Casserole is your go-to. Packed with juicy chicken, fresh herbs, and creamy goodness, it's a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients for Hearty Herb Chicken Casserole

Boneless chicken thighs are chosen for their juiciness and flavor. They hold up well during cooking and soak up the sauce beautifully.

Olive oil is used to sauté the aromatics and brown the chicken, adding a subtle richness.

Onion and garlic form the flavor base of the dish, adding depth and aroma.

Chicken broth and heavy cream create the creamy sauce, binding all the flavors together into a luscious mixture.

Frozen peas and carrots add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing and nutritious.

Dried thyme and rosemary bring earthy, aromatic notes that elevate the chicken.

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Cheddar cheese gives a delightful, melty topping that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.

Cooked white rice serves as the perfect bed for the casserole, soaking up all those delicious juices.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of flour with a little water and add it to the sauce before simmering.
  • For a crispier topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Use a sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese flavor, or try mixing in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity in the dressing will cut through the richness of the dish. A side of crusty bread is also a great addition for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but be aware that breasts may cook faster, so check for doneness earlier to avoid drying them out.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. Bake when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Hearty Herb Chicken Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures that once your casserole is assembled, it goes into a hot oven, cooking everything evenly.

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent. This should take about 5 minutes and will fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma.

Next, add the chicken thighs to the skillet, browning them on both sides. Give each side about 5 minutes to develop a nice color. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine them into a smooth sauce. Add the carrots and peas, then season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

Return the chicken to the skillet, covering it in the sauce. Let this simmer for about 15 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken absorbs all the wonderful flavors from the sauce and herbs.

Transfer the entire mixture to a casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top, ensuring it covers the surface nicely. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve the casserole hot over a bed of cooked white rice. The rice will soak up all the delicious sauce, making each bite absolutely delightful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines savory chicken with a creamy, herby sauce.
  • Perfectly balanced with vegetables like carrots and peas for a full meal.
  • Easy enough for a weeknight, impressive enough for guests.
  • One-pan dish means less cleanup!
  • Flexible ingredients to suit your pantry staples.

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless chicken thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
2 large carrots, sliced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups cooked white rice

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
3. Add chicken thighs to the skillet and brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add chicken broth and cream, stirring to combine.
5. Add carrots and peas to the sauce, then season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
6. Return chicken to the skillet, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
7. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with cheddar cheese, and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Serve hot over cooked rice.

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