Casserole with potatoes and chicken

A casserole with potatoes and chicken is a hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for a family meal. It's easy to prepare and can be customized with various ingredients and seasonings. Here's a straightforward recipe for a delicious potato and chicken casserole:

Potato and Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook Chicken:

   • Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme or rosemary. Remove from heat.

3. Prepare Potatoes:

   • Peel and slice the potatoes thinly (about 1/8 inch thick). You can use a mandolin slicer for even slices.

4. Prepare Sauce:

   • In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup with the milk or heavy cream until smooth.

5. Assemble Casserole:

   • In a large baking dish, arrange a layer of potato slices on the bottom.
   • Spread half of the cooked chicken pieces over the potatoes.
   • Sprinkle half of the frozen peas (if using) over the chicken.
   • Pour half of the soup mixture over the chicken and potatoes.
   • Add another layer of potato slices, followed by the remaining chicken and peas.
   • Pour the remaining soup mixture over the top.
   • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole.

6. Add Topping (Optional):

   • For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

7. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
   • After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve:

   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Variations:

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, Gruyère, or mozzarella for varied flavors.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a bit of heat.
• Healthier Option: Use low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter version.

This potato and chicken casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Enjoy!