Chicken and Veggies Bake



Flip it!

Chicken and Veggie Casserole with Creamy Sauce: A Comfort Food Masterpiece

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken and Veggie Casserole. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and a rich homemade sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings, this recipe is easy to customize and packed with flavor.

Jump to Recipe

This Chicken and Veggie Casserole is a labor of love born from experimentation and creativity in the kitchen. It’s the kind of dish that reminds us how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary when combined thoughtfully.

The Story Behind This Casserole

The creator of this dish admits they don’t often share recipes but couldn’t resist after pulling together inspiration from various sources to craft this masterpiece. By combining favorite flavors like buttery chicken, hearty vegetables, and a luscious cream sauce, they created a comforting casserole that quickly became a hit—even earning praise on their third helping! The result? A versatile, crowd-pleasing meal that invites personal touches and tweaks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy and Cheesy: The velvety sauce paired with melted mozzarella makes every bite indulgent.
  • Packed with Veggies: Spinach, broccoli, mushrooms, and onions add color, texture, and nutrition.
  • Customizable: Adjust seasonings, veggies, or toppings to suit your taste preferences.
  • Comfort Food Vibes: Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal.

Variations

  • Add Protein: Swap chicken for turkey, beef, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
  • Switch Up Cheese: Use cheddar, Parmesan, or Gruyère instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
  • Extra Greens: Add kale, zucchini, or peas for more veggie variety.
  • Spice It Up: Stir in red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning for a kick of heat.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Leftovers

  • Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
  • Use leftover casserole as a filling for stuffed baked potatoes or omelets.
  • Top with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added freshness when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes! Just thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.

What if I don’t have heavy whipping cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Do I have to include tomatoes?
Not at all! Feel free to omit roasted tomatoes if you’re not a fan—they’re optional.

How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Chicken and Veggie Casserole Recipe

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Vegetables:

  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup chopped spinach
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
  • ½ cup chopped onions
  • 1 cup roasted grape tomatoes (optional)

For the Sauce:

  • 8 oz heavy whipping cream
  • 10 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt, to taste

For Assembly:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (use less if preferred)

Directions

Cook the Chicken:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

  • In another skillet, sauté the mushrooms, spinach, and onions until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Combine with the steamed broccoli and roasted tomatoes (if using).

Make the Sauce:

  • In a medium saucepan over low-medium heat, combine the heavy whipping cream, cream cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, chicken bouillon, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Whisk continuously until smooth and creamy, about 5-7 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Assemble the Casserole:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • In the prepared dish, layer the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce. Mix gently to combine.
  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  • Bake for 10 minutes, then broil for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve:

  • Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories 450
Carbohydrates 10g
Total Fat 35g
Cholesterol 120mg
Dietary Fiber 2g
Sodium 600mg
Sugar 5g
Protein 25g

Recipe Notes

  • Feel free to “eyeball” seasoning amounts based on personal preference—the original creator did!
  • If you prefer a crispier topping, broil for an extra 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
  • Steam broccoli separately to ensure it’s fully cooked without making other ingredients soggy.
  • This recipe is forgiving, so don’t stress about exact measurements—just enjoy the process!

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Veggie Casserole is proof that sometimes the best recipes come from a little creativity and a lot of heart. Whether you follow the instructions exactly or make it your own, this dish promises to deliver comfort and satisfaction in every bite. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and give this delicious creation a try—you might just find yourself reaching for seconds (or thirds!).