Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that warms both the heart and the home. This dish features tender chicken pieces and sliced potatoes, all enveloped in a creamy béchamel sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, bringing together flavors that everyone loves. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this Cheesy Chicken Casserole. First, it’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare. Second, the creamy texture of the béchamel sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken, making it a family favorite. Additionally, it’s versatile; you can easily adjust the ingredients to include your favorite vegetables or spices. The recipe is also a great way to use leftover chicken, and it can be made ahead of time for those busy weeknights. The appeal of comforting, cheesy goodness is hard to resist, making it a popular choice at any dinner table. Lastly, this Chicken Cheese Bake can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe

Gather these items:

2-3 medium size potatoes, sliced into ¼’’ slices
2 Tablespoons avocado oil or oil of choice
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 pound chicken breasts, cut into ½ inch pieces
1 Tablespoon oil of choice
1 medium onion, diced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
½ bell pepper, diced
1 roma tomato, diced
¼ cup cilantro, minced
¼ cup tomato paste
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 Tablespoons butter
2 Tablespoons flour
2 cups milk or half & half
1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Arrange the sliced potatoes in a 9-inch casserole dish. Drizzle with avocado oil and season with salt and pepper, ensuring each slice is coated. Bake the potatoes for 20 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 2: While the potatoes are baking, heat a large heavy-duty pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until softened and golden. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the chicken pieces and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they start to brown. Stir in bell pepper, tomato, cilantro, tomato paste, and spices (cumin, coriander powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper). Cook this mixture for 3-4 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt butter with minced garlic. Cook the garlic for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute or until golden. Gradually whisk in milk, about ½ cup at a time, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy and thickens, around 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Take the potatoes out of the oven and evenly layer the cooked chicken mixture over the potatoes. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly on top of the chicken layer. Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the entire casserole.
Step 5: Return the assembled casserole to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and browned. Remove from the oven, slice, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set.
The method for making this dish is baking, which enhances the flavors beautifully.
For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe

This Cheesy Chicken Bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For a comforting twist, consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or even some garlic bread for dipping!

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How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it back in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal prep solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Chicken Casserole?

The secret lies in layering the ingredients correctly. Start with the potatoes, then the spiced chicken mixture, followed by the creamy béchamel sauce, and finish with generous cheese on top. This layering ensures every bite is packed with flavors.

Can I make Cheesy Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just bake it straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Chicken Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that the potatoes are sliced evenly and baked until slightly tender before adding the other layers. Also, don’t skip seasoning at each step to enhance the overall flavor profile of your casserole.

Variations of Cheesy Chicken Casserole Recipe You Can Try

For a twist on this classic, consider making a Cheesy Chicken Pasta Bake by substituting the potatoes with cooked pasta. You can also create a Cheesy Chicken Casserole with Vegetables by adding mixed vegetables like peas or carrots. For a heartier meal, use brown rice instead of potatoes to make a Cheesy Chicken Casserole with Rice.

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For more delicious casserole ideas, check out our Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole or Cozy Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole Recipe. You can also try our Creamy Broccoli Casserole for a delightful side dish!