Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the best of comfort food and wholesome ingredients—Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole! This hearty and flavorful recipe features tender chicken, crisp asparagus, savory bacon, and creamy potatoes, all baked to perfection in a single dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the kitchen and whip up this delicious masterpiece together!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3 cups of diced potatoes (about 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. In the same skillet used for the bacon, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the diced potatoes evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the cooked bacon, sautéed onion, and garlic mixture. Arrange the chicken breasts on top of the potatoes.
- Add Asparagus: Scatter the trimmed asparagus pieces around the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Prepare Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, chicken broth, fresh thyme leaves, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour Sauce and Add Cheese: Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken, potatoes, and asparagus in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and remaining bacon on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Remove the foil from the baking dish and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and bacon for a vegetarian version of this casserole. You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure that all ingredients used are gluten-free to make this casserole suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen asparagus instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen asparagus if fresh is not available. Simply thaw and drain the frozen asparagus before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Allow the casserole to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I use different cheese for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for added flavor.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? A: The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. Ensure that there are no pink juices and the meat is opaque.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole, omit the potatoes and use cauliflower florets or broccoli instead. Substitute heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a lower-carb option. You can also use turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether to reduce the fat content.
In conclusion, Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh asparagus, and creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Whether served for a cozy dinner at home or shared with friends at a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and give this delicious recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
