Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm chicken pot pie, and when you transform this classic dish into a casserole, you elevate the cozy factor to new heights. Say hello to Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, a dish that not only delivers nostalgic flavors but also fits seamlessly into a busy schedule. With layers of flaky biscuits or golden pastry, savory chicken, and creamy veggies, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Why Make This Recipe
- Easy to assemble with minimal prep time – perfect for a busy weeknight.
- One-pot comfort food that everyone loves, from kids to adults.
- Customize it according to your preferences with various fillings and toppings.
Whether you are looking to impress guests or whip up something hearty for your family, this Chicken Pot Pie Casserole will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Simple Way to Prepare Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Making your own Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is not only simple, but it’s also a fun activity to engage in with family or friends. Here’s a straightforward guide that will walk you through each step of the cooking process:
Preheat the Oven: Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole gets that beautiful golden finish while cooking.
Cook the Aromatics: In a medium skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is bubbly, add one small diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Then, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Make the Filling: Lower the heat slightly and add in 2 cups of cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option, leftover chicken, or even canned chicken if time is short. Next, toss in 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables, like peas, carrots, and corn. Pour in one 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup and half a cup of milk. Stir it all together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Taste your filling and season it with half a teaspoon of salt, half a teaspoon of black pepper, and optional herbs like half a teaspoon of dried thyme or a quarter teaspoon of poultry seasoning as per your taste.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken and vegetable filling into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it evenly.
Add the Topping: Now comes the fun part—top your filling. You can use a can of refrigerated biscuit dough, placing the biscuits whole or quartering them for more coverage, or cover it with a sheet of puff pastry. If you’re feeling fancy, brush the top with an egg wash or a splash of milk for that golden sheen.
Bake: Pop your casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is bubbling and the topping has turned a lovely golden color. Once baked, take it out and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Storage Tips for Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Leftover Chicken Pot Pie Casserole can be a lifesaver for lunches or quick dinners later in the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate it: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F or below.
- Freeze it: For longer storage, freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before wrapping tightly to prevent freezer burn.
- Thawing and Reheating: To enjoy your frozen chicken pot pie casserole, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
When it comes to serving your Chicken Pot Pie Casserole, the options are endless. Here are a few serving ideas to consider:
Side Salads: Pair it with a light side salad to balance the richness of the casserole. A simple green salad with vinaigrette or a warm spinach salad would be delightful.
Bread Options: Biscuit lovers can’t resist serving it alongside homemade or store-bought rolls. A slice of crusty bread can also complement the creamy filling beautifully.
Herb Garnish: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top before serving for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Beverages: For drinks, opt for a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea to cut through the savory richness.
Tips to Make Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
For extra cheesy goodness, you can stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the filling just before pouring it into the casserole dish. This adds a delightful twist and boosts the flavor.
If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling Everything Bagel Seasoning on top of your biscuits before baking.
Adding even more vegetables like broccoli or spinach can not only enhance the nutritional profile of the casserole but also the flavors.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re looking to spice things up or adapt the recipe to your taste or dietary requirements, here are some variations you might consider:
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian take, you can swap out chicken for hearty mushrooms or chickpeas and replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or a cashew cream for a vegan option.
Turkey Delight: If you have leftover turkey after the holidays, this recipe is an excellent way to utilize it. Just substitute the chicken with shredded turkey, and you’re all set for a delicious dish that is perfect for the post-holiday season.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the filling and assemble the casserole, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven.
Is it possible to use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a fantastic substitution and can offer a richer flavor and juiciness to the casserole.
How do I make it spicier?
For a kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling. You could also include some hot sauce in the cream of chicken soup for a subtle heat.
What are some good sides to serve with chicken pot pie casserole?
Classic choices include steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts, providing a nice contrast to the creamy casserole.
Closing Thoughts
This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and lazy Sunday evenings. The warmth of the chicken filling wrapped in flaky layers creates an irresistible combination that is both satisfying and nostalgic. With its easy preparation and delightful variations, this casserole proves that comfort food can be quick and adaptable. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or just cozy up on the couch, this recipe will surely deliver smiles all around. So grab your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and savor the homey flavors of this beloved dish. Happy cooking!
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Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A comforting Chicken Pot Pie Casserole featuring layers of flaky biscuits, savory chicken, and creamy veggies, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked chicken
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional)
- Refrigerated biscuit dough or puff pastry
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Melt butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Lower heat slightly, then add cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Season filling with salt, pepper, and optional herbs to taste.
- Pour filling into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Top with biscuit dough or puff pastry, brushing with an egg wash or milk if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until filling is bubbling and topping is golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.