If you're in the mood for something comforting and easy to make, this Traditional Homestyle Casserole is just what you need. It's a warm, hearty dish that's perfect for any time of the year, packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and creamy goodness. Let's dive into how you can bring this satisfying meal to your table.
Boneless chicken breasts are the star of this dish, offering lean protein that keeps you satisfied. Broccoli florets and carrots add a pop of color and a healthy crunch, while diced onion enhances the overall flavor profile. The cream of mushroom soup acts as the creamy base, binding everything together. Shredded cheddar cheese tops it all off, giving it a melted, bubbly finish. Milk helps to thin the soup for the perfect consistency. Cooked white rice fills out the dish, making it hearty and substantial. A touch of olive oil is used for sautéing, and a blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme seasons the casserole beautifully.
This casserole is a meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round out your dinner, consider serving it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. For a complete comfort food experience, pair it with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
First, let's get our oven ready by preheating it to 350°F. While the oven heats up, grab a large skillet and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Place it over medium heat and once it's hot, lay down your chicken breasts. You're looking to get a nice golden brown color, which should take about five minutes on each side. Once done, take the chicken out of the skillet, let it cool a bit, and then slice it into bite-sized pieces.
Don't wash that skillet just yet — we want all those tasty bits from the chicken. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and broccoli florets. Sauté them until they’re tender, which usually takes around seven minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to make sure everything cooks evenly.
Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup with the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. Now, add in the cooked rice, your sliced chicken, and the sautéed vegetables. Mix thoroughly so that every bite is packed with flavor.
Pour this mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once it's done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.