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Casseroles have long been cherished as a quintessential comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction in every bite. These versatile dishes are not only easy to prepare, but they also allow for endless variations, making them suitable for any palate or dietary preference. The appeal of casseroles lies in their ability to bring together a medley of ingredients, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that can be enjoyed by the whole family. As the cooler months approach, there’s nothing quite like a hearty casserole to warm you from the inside out.

Savory Baked Chicken and Vegetable Casserole

Discover the heartwarming goodness of Savory Baked Chicken and Vegetable Casserole, a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and creamy goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this recipe offers a nutritious and satisfying option that everyone will love. With endless customization possibilities for dietary preferences, it’s a versatile meal that’s easy to make and destined to become a family favorite. Enjoy the cozy flavors and wholesome ingredients in every bite!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

1 cup fresh broccoli florets

1 cup carrots, sliced into thin rounds

1 cup bell peppers, diced (choose from red, yellow, or green for a colorful mix)

1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice (your choice for a nutty flavor)

1 can (15 oz) cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup chicken broth for added moisture

1 cup shredded cheese (choose between cheddar for sharpness or mozzarella for creaminess)

1 teaspoon garlic powder for flavor depth

1 teaspoon onion powder to enhance taste

1 teaspoon dried thyme for herbal notes

Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning

1 teaspoon olive oil for sautéing

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

    Prepare the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets, sliced carrots, and diced bell peppers. Sauté these colorful vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become tender yet retain some crispness.

      Mix the Ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken with the sautéed vegetables. Add the cooked quinoa or brown rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated.

        Add Cheese: Fold in half of the shredded cheese into the mixture, reserving the other half to create a cheesy topping later.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking throughout.

            Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese atop the casserole. If you love a crunchy texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer for an extra delightful crunch.

              Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese turns a beautiful golden brown.

                Garnish and Serve: Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and aroma. Serve this warm and enjoy your hearty, delicious savory chicken and vegetable casserole!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6