Cheesy Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Fluffy Potato Dough is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy topping. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and a fluffy potato dough. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this casserole is an easy and tasty option.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 onion, finely chopped – Onions provide sweetness and depth to the casserole.
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil (20 ml) – Used for sautéing the ingredients, adding richness to the filling.
- 250 g chicken breast, cubed – A lean protein that gives the casserole its hearty base.
- 1 green pepper, sliced – Adds color and a mild sweetness to the dish.
- 1 red pepper, sliced – Offers a slightly tangy flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 tomato, diced – Contributes freshness and a slight acidity to balance the richness.
- 1 tsp salt (6 g) – Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a gentle heat to the dish.
- 2 tbsp ketchup – Provides a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the filling, balancing the flavors.
For the Dough
- 1 potato, boiled and mashed – Forms the base of the dough, providing softness and texture.
- 1 glass of milk (100 ml) – Helps create a smooth consistency for the dough.
- 2 eggs – Binds the ingredients and contributes to the fluffiness of the dough.
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour (80 g) – Helps to form the dough and gives it structure.
- 1 tsp salt (5 g) – Enhances the flavor of the dough.
- 1 tsp baking powder (5 g) – Ensures the dough rises and becomes fluffy when baked.
For Topping
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds color and a fresh, herbal flavor to the dish.
- 300 g cheddar cheese, grated – Provides a rich, melty topping that makes the casserole irresistibly cheesy.
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetable Filling
- In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the cubed chicken breast to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the sliced green and red peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the peppers soften.
- Add the diced tomato, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
- Stir in the ketchup and mayonnaise, mixing everything well. Once combined, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Dough
- Boil the potato until it is soft and mash it until smooth. Allow the mashed potato to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potato, milk, and eggs. Whisk until smooth and well-combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder, stirring to incorporate the dry ingredients. The mixture should form a thick batter-like consistency.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a medium-sized baking dish with a little oil or butter.
- Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Pour the potato dough mixture over the chicken and vegetables, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven, setting it to bake with only the bottom part of the oven open.
- Bake for 20 minutes until the dough is set and slightly golden on the bottom.
- After 20 minutes, open the top part of the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking
- After the casserole has baked for a total of 35 minutes, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Once the cheese is fully melted and golden, remove the casserole from the oven.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Green Salad: Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad to add a crisp and refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Pair the casserole with warm garlic bread for a comforting side.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots for a balanced meal.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add extra creaminess to the casserole.
Cooking Tips
- Dough Consistency: If the dough is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Substitute for Chicken: For a different flavor, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even a vegetarian protein like tofu.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and dough separately in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Benefits
- Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken breast is low in fat and supports muscle health and repair.
- Vegetables: The peppers and tomato add essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to overall wellness.
- Potatoes: Potatoes provide carbohydrates for energy and are a good source of potassium, supporting heart health.
- Cheddar Cheese: Rich in calcium, cheddar cheese supports bone health and provides a creamy, indulgent topping.
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a combination for different flavors.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add the cheese before baking.
3. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used instead of fresh ones. Be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the filling.
4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or potato flour for a gluten-free version.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
For extra spice, you can add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. Adjust the heat to your preference.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- High-Protein: With chicken breast as the main protein source, this casserole is high in protein, promoting muscle growth and repair.
- Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb dish, consider using a cauliflower-based dough or reducing the potato amount.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is a satisfying, filling meal that combines chicken, vegetables, and cheese in every bite.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences.
- Family-Friendly: Perfect for feeding a crowd, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Fluffy Potato Dough is a delicious, all-in-one dish that combines savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy topping. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this casserole delivers on flavor and satisfaction. With the option for substitutions and variations, you can tailor the recipe to fit your tastes and dietary needs.