Welcome to a cozy, comforting dish that brings the flavors of herbs and cheese together in a delightful chicken casserole. This recipe combines tender chicken with fresh vegetables, all baked to perfection under a layer of melted cheese. It’s a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Boneless chicken breasts provide a lean, protein-rich base for our casserole. Broccoli florets and sliced carrots add a pop of color and a healthy crunch. Chopped onions and minced garlic offer a savory depth of flavor. Our creamy sauce starts with chicken broth and is made luxurious with heavy cream. For herbs, dried thyme and dried oregano offer a fragrant aroma that complements the dish beautifully. Finally, grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese create a gooey, golden topping, while fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness to finish.
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve it with crusty garlic bread to soak up all the creamy sauce. A glass of chilled white wine complements the dish nicely, balancing the richness of the cheese and cream.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F, which ensures it's ready for the casserole once assembled. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and chopped onions. Let them sauté until the onions turn translucent, releasing a delicious aroma. Next, add the chicken breasts to the pan. Cook them until they're lightly browned on both sides—about 6 to 8 minutes per side—then set them aside.
In the same pan, toss in the broccoli florets and sliced carrots. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they're slightly tender. Now, stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Get a casserole dish ready. Layer the bottom with the cooked rice. Place your browned chicken on top, followed by the creamy vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over everything. Now, bake it in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the cheese is golden and bubbly. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.