Hearty Creamy Chicken and Potato Casserole

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a family, look no further. Our Creamy Chicken and Potato Casserole is a hearty dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked potatoes. Whether you're a busy parent, an enthusiastic home cook, or someone who just loves good food, this recipe is designed especially for you.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need:

• 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 6 medium potatoes (peeled and thinly sliced)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with some olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken - Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika on both sides of the chicken breasts or thighs.
2. Sear the Chicken - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes and Onion

1. Layer the Potatoes - Arrange the sliced potatoes evenly in the greased baking dish.
2. Add the Onion and Garlic - Scatter the chopped onion and minced garlic over the layer of potatoes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients - In a mixing bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and heavy cream.
2. Add Cheese - Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Add Chicken to the Dish - Place the seared chicken on top of the potato and onion layer.
2. Pour the Sauce - Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and potatoes.
3. Top with Cheese - Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips for Success

• Chicken Substitutes - If you prefer dark meat, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
• Additional Veggies - Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spice It Up - For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Potato Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Easy to make and satisfying to eat, it's perfect for any night of the week. Try it out and share your experience with us! Don’t forget to tag us in your posts on social media and share this recipe with your fellow food enthusiasts.

Happy cooking!