Description
A delicious and creamy baked chicken casserole that is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Make Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add flour and stir for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until smooth. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, place the chicken breasts. Scatter diced ham over the chicken, then pour the cream sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the casserole.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle over the cheese layer in the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon before assembling the casserole.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the cream sauce.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving