Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Casserole

Delicious Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Casserole, a perfect blend of chicken, vegetables, and creamy gravy topped with melted cheese. Ideal for breakfast or brunch!

Ingredients

• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons ground pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon salt (or more to taste)
• 2 large chicken breasts
• 3 cups water
• 1 lb frozen assorted vegetables (like peas and carrots)
• 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese (brick)

Instructions

1. For the gravy: Melt the butter in a large skillet on medium heat.
2. Add 1/4 cup of the flour and stir until lightly combined.
3. Add the milk and stir with a whisk for 12 minutes.
4. Add the rest of the flour to help thicken and stir consistently for another 5 minutes.
5. Add pepper and salt. If it is not very thick, add another small handful of flour, stirring continuously.
6. Take off heat once thick.
7. For the chicken: Boil water and add chicken to the water, boiling until soft, tender, and completely cooked.
8. Shred the chicken.
9. Let the frozen veggies thaw.
10. Shred the cheese brick.
11. Mix together the vegetables, chicken, and gravy.
12. Place the gravy mix on the bottom of a 9x13 inch glass casserole dish.
13. Top the gravy mixture with salt and pepper, then with shredded cheese.
14. Bake until cheese is melted.
15. Enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Nutrition information is not available.

Recipe Overview

Difficulty Level: Easy

Equipment Needed: Large skillet, Whisk, 9x13 inch glass casserole dish, Measuring cups and spoons.

Kitchen Tips: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding. For a creamier texture, whisk the gravy continuously while adding flour.

Make-ahead Options: You can prepare the gravy and chicken in advance, storing them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the casserole.

Ingredient Deep Dive

Quality Selection Guide: Choose fresh chicken breasts and high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Substitutions: Use low-fat milk for a lighter version or replace cheddar with mozzarella for a different flavor.

Measurement Conversions: 1 cup = 240 ml, 1 tablespoon = 15 ml, 1 lb = 0.45 kg.

Expert Techniques

Professional Tips: For extra flavor, sauté onions and garlic in the butter before adding flour to create a more complex base for the gravy.

Common Mistakes: Adding too much flour at once can cause lumps in the gravy; add gradually.

Visual Cues: The gravy should coat the back of a spoon when it s thick enough.

Equipment Alternatives: A Dutch oven can be used instead of a skillet for making the gravy.

Serving & Presentation

Plating Suggestions: Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for color.

Food Pairing: Pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty bread.

Portion Guidelines: Serve approximately 1 cup per person for a balanced meal.

Special Occasions: Great for family gatherings or holiday brunches.

Nutrition & Health

Detailed Nutrition: Each serving contains protein from chicken, calcium from cheese, and vitamins from vegetables.

Health Benefits: This dish provides a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and fats.

Dietary Considerations: Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour.

Wellness Tips: Pair with a side of steamed vegetables to increase fiber intake.

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To freeze, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Ensure the casserole is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.

Variations & Adaptations

• Try using seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers in spring and summer.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu.
• Easily double the recipe for larger gatherings, adjusting cooking time as necessary.
• Use store-brand ingredients or frozen vegetables to lower costs without sacrificing flavor.

Troubleshooting FAQ

• If the casserole is too watery, try adding a bit more flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy.
• If the cheese isn t melting well, cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking.
• For a creamier texture, consider adding cream cheese or sour cream to the gravy mix.
• Prep the ingredients and make the gravy ahead of time to save time on busy days.

Community & Sharing

• This casserole is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, serving up to 12 people.
• This dish is inspired by classic American comfort food traditions.
• Casseroles have been a staple in American kitchens since the 19th century, evolving with various ingredient combinations.
• Prepare multiple casseroles at once and freeze them for quick meals on busy nights.