Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Cheese Recipe

Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Cheese Recipe

This Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Cheese is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It combines tender chicken fillets, fresh vegetables, thinly sliced potatoes, and a rich cheesy topping, all baked together in a creamy egg mixture. The addition of paprika and dill brings a subtle warmth and flavor to every bite. Whether served alone or with a side salad, this casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 150 ml (⅔ cup) milk or cream
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• Pepper, to taste
• 800 g (1.75 lbs) chicken fillet
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 small onions, thinly sliced
• 5 potatoes, thinly sliced into circles
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
• 1 sprig dill, chopped
• 110 g (1 cup) grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• Olive oil or butter for greasing the baking dish

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

1. In a bowl, whisk together 3 eggs and 150 ml milk or cream.
2. Season with salt, sweet paprika, and pepper, and mix well. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pound the chicken fillets using a meat mallet to tenderize them.
2. Rub the fillets with minced garlic, and season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter.
3. Layer the ingredients in the following order:
   • Layer 1: Spread a layer of sliced onions on the bottom of the baking dish.
   • Layer 2: Add a layer of sliced potatoes over the onions, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
   • Layer 3: Add the sliced red bell peppers and sprinkle chopped dill on top.
   • Layer 4: Place the chicken fillets on top of the vegetables.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cheese

1. Lay the sliced tomatoes over the chicken fillets.
2. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 180°C (356°F) for 60 minutes.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake Again

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and uncover it.
2. Sprinkle most of the grated cheese over the casserole, saving some for the top layer.
3. Add another layer of sliced tomatoes and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
4. Increase the oven temperature to 210°C (410°F) and bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Serve warm as a main dish.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Chicken: High in protein, B vitamins, and iron, chicken supports muscle health, energy production, and red blood cell formation.
• Potatoes: Rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, potatoes support heart health, aid in digestion, and contribute to a healthy immune system.
• Tomatoes: High in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote skin health.
• Cheese: Provides calcium, protein, and vitamin B12, which are essential for bone health, muscle function, and energy metabolism.

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe:

Casseroles are a comforting dish common across many cultures, offering a convenient way to combine meats, vegetables, and cheese in one pot. This particular Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Cheese draws inspiration from both European and American baked dishes. Casseroles became widely popular in the mid-20th century due to their simplicity and the use of affordable ingredients. Today, casseroles are a go-to for busy families because they’re easy to prepare and can be made ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese creates a rich, satisfying dish that feels like a hug in a bite.
• Versatile: This casserole can be enjoyed on its own, or served alongside other dishes such as salads, roasted vegetables, or bread for a more complete meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this casserole is an accessible dish perfect for any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, savory layers make it a hit with the whole family, including picky eaters.

Health Benefits of This Recipe:

• Balanced Nutrients: The dish combines lean protein from chicken, complex carbohydrates from potatoes, and healthy fats from olive oil, making it a well-rounded, nourishing meal.
• Antioxidants: The tomatoes and dill in this dish are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Calcium and Protein: The cheese provides a good source of calcium for strong bones and protein for muscle repair and growth.

Serving Suggestions:

• With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a green salad with a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast to the rich casserole.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots for a hearty and healthy side.
• With Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to help scoop up the cheesy, savory casserole sauce.
• For Breakfast or Brunch: This casserole also makes a great brunch dish when served with a side of fresh fruit.

Tips:

• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach to the casserole for added nutrients and flavor.
• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with various cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta to change up the flavor.
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be prepared the day before and stored in the fridge. Simply bake when ready to serve.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Variations to Try:

• Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegan cheese and plant-based milk to make this dish vegan-friendly.
• Creamy Mushroom Version: Add sautéed mushrooms for a rich, earthy flavor.

Conclusion:

This Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, savory vegetables, and gooey cheese into a satisfying, easy-to-make meal. Perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or weeknight meals, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite. With its customizable ingredients and ease of preparation, you’ll find yourself making it over and over again.