Baked Chicken and Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any family dinner. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken breasts with thinly sliced potatoes, all baked together in a creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice Potatoes and Onions: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes and onion. This ensures even cooking and a uniform texture.
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients
- Grease Baking Dish: Lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil.
- Layer Potatoes and Onions: Arrange the sliced potatoes and onions in an even layer at the bottom of the baking dish. Season with a pinch of salt, pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary.
- Add Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on top of the potatoes and onions.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined.
- Pour Over Chicken: Pour the cream sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes in the baking dish.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
- Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve: Serve the baked chicken and potato casserole hot, with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Even Slicing: Ensure the potatoes and onions are sliced evenly for uniform cooking. A mandoline slicer can be helpful for this task.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to use other types of cheese such as mozzarella, Gruyère, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.
- Extra Flavor: For added flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in your favorite marinade for 1-2 hours before assembling the casserole.
Variations
Low-Carb/Keto Version:
- Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets to keep the dish low-carb.
Gluten-Free Version:
- Ensure all ingredients, particularly the chicken broth and cheese, are certified gluten-free if necessary.
Vegan Version:
- Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or a plant-based protein, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace the dairy products with plant-based alternatives.
Tips for Perfect Casserole
- Seasoning: Ensure each layer is well-seasoned to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve.
- Checking Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken for perfect doneness.
Baked Chicken and Potato Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and melted cheese creates a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a small gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the simplicity and rich flavors of this hearty dish!
Enjoy your Baked Chicken and Potato Casserole!
