Comfort Chicken and Potato Casserole
The Story Behind This Delicious Casserole
There’s something magical about a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and pure satisfaction to the dinner table. This Chicken and Potato Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary embrace that speaks to the heart of home cooking. Combining tender chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and a medley of vibrant flavors, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular dinner that will one asking for seconds.
Born from the tradition of hearty family meals, this casserole represents the perfect balance of nutrition and indulgence. It’s a testament to how a few quality ingredients can create a truly memorable dining experience that brings people together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Potatoes: 750 grams (about 1.65 lbs) – peeled and cut into pieces
- Butter: 40 grams (about 3 tablespoons)
- Fresh Milk (warm): 120 milliliters (about 1/2 cup)
- Chicken Meat: 650 grams (about 1.43 lbs), cut into small chunks
- Onions: 2 medium-sized, peeled and diced
- Red Pepper: 1/2, finely chopped
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Sour Cream: 4 tablespoons (60 ml)
- Cooking Oil: 3 tablespoons (45 ml)
- Cherry Tomatoes: 4-5, sliced
- Yellow Cheese: 150 grams (about 5.3 oz), grated
- Fresh Dill: 1 small bunch, chopped
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and cut potatoes into even-sized pieces
- Place in a pot of salted water
- Boil for 20 minutes until tender
- Drain thoroughly
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy
- Create Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Add warm milk to the mashed potatoes
- Incorporate butter
- Season with salt and black pepper
- Mix until light and fluffy
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- Dice onions into small, uniform pieces
- Chop red pepper into fine pieces
- Cut chicken into small, bite-sized chunks
- Cook the Chicken
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat
- Add chicken pieces
- Cook until water evaporates and chicken begins to brown
- Add diced onions and cook briefly
- Stir in red pepper and cook until softened
- Create the Sauce
- Add sour cream to the chicken mixture
- Simmer for 5 minutes
- Season with salt and pepper to taste
- Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F)
- Grease a baking dish
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom
- Layer the chicken mixture on top of the potatoes
- Garnish with sliced cherry tomatoes
- Sprinkle chopped fresh dill
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 15 minutes
- Remove from oven
- Top with grated yellow cheese
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden
- Serve and Enjoy
- Let casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking
- Slice and serve warm
- Garnish with additional fresh dill if desired
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 portion (approximately 1/6 of the casserole)
- Calories: 380-420
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-4g
Preparation Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 1 hour Servings: 6
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Potato Perfection: For the creamiest mashed potatoes, use warm milk and room temperature butter
- Chicken Tip: Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly but not overdried
- Cheese Selection: Use a good melting cheese like Gouda or Cheddar for best results
- Flavor Boost: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu or mixed vegetables
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based milk and butter, and skip the cheese
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes for extra kick
- Herb Variations: Substitute dill with parsley or chives
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 10 minutes to cooking time if baking from cold.
Q2: How do I store leftovers? A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for best texture.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze before or after baking. If freezing before baking, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Q4: What can I serve with this casserole? A: A light green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish perfectly.
Q5: Can I use different types of meat? A: Absolutely! Turkey or ground meat work well as alternatives to chicken.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days
- Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Best reheated in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes
- Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and cook chicken a day in advance to reduce day-of cooking time
Enjoy this comforting, delicious Chicken and Potato Casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite!