Hearty Chicken Bake is a dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. When I first made this dish, it quickly became a family favorite. The aroma of tender chicken mixed with creamy sauce and fresh vegetables fills the kitchen, making everyone excited to sit down for dinner. It’s a simple recipe, but it tastes so rich and satisfying, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Hearty Chicken Bake is easy to prepare, and the whole family will love it.
Ingredients for Hearty Chicken Bake
To make Hearty Chicken Bake, you’ll need a few basic ingredients. Start with some chicken breasts or thighs, which will become juicy and tender when baked. You’ll also need a creamy soup base, like cream of mushroom or chicken soup, to create that smooth, comforting texture. Fresh vegetables like carrots and potatoes are essential to make the dish hearty. Don’t forget to season with a bit of garlic, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
How to Make Hearty Chicken Bake
Making Hearty Chicken Bake is as easy as it sounds. First, prepare the chicken by seasoning it with your favorite spices. In a baking dish, layer the vegetables and pour over the creamy soup. Place the chicken on top and cover the dish with foil. Bake it in the oven until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. The result is a dish that’s both simple and full of flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Why Hearty Chicken Bake is Special
What makes Hearty Chicken Bake so special is its ability to bring everyone to the table. It’s a comforting meal that satisfies hunger and warms the heart. Plus, it’s versatile. You can add your favorite vegetables or even switch up the type of chicken used. No matter how you make it, Hearty Chicken Bake is sure to become a go-to recipe for family dinners.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Hearty Chicken bake
- Pre-Shredded Chicken: For even quicker preparation, use store-bought shredded rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds flavor, making the dish even more convenient for busy weeknights.
- Layering Tip: Make sure the chicken and vegetables are spread evenly in the casserole dish. This ensures every bite is balanced with chicken, veggies, and a flavorful sauce.
- Crispy Biscuit Topping: For a golden, crispy biscuit topping, consider broiling the casserole for the last 5 minutes of baking. Just watch closely to avoid burning!
- Customize Your Vegetables: If you prefer a different mix of vegetables, feel free to swap frozen peas and carrots with fresh or frozen broccoli, green beans, or corn. The dish remains just as comforting and delicious with any variation.
- Make It Ahead: This recipe can be prepared a day ahead. Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge.
- Gluten-Free Options: Use a gluten-free biscuit mix and ensure your cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free for a modified version suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Add a Flavor Boost: If you want to elevate the flavor, add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken layer or mix a little Dijon mustard into the sauce for a tangy twist.
Hearty Chicken Bake
4
15
minutes1
hour700
kcal10
minutes1
hour25
minutesDive into the comforting embrace of our Hearty Chicken Bake! This delightful one-pan meal combines succulent shredded chicken with vibrant vegetables and a rich, savory sauce, all topped with a golden, cheesy biscuit layer. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s simple to prepare and customizable to suit your family’s tastes. Imagine the warmth and satisfaction with every bite—this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation. Get ready to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Ingredients
- Base Layers
3 tablespoons unsalted butter liquefied
3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1.5 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
10.5 ounce herb-infused cream of chicken soup
1.5 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
0.5 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Biscuit Topping:
8 ounces Cheddar Biscuit Mix save seasoning packet
1.5 cups whole milk
½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Butter Drizzle:
1 tablespoon unsalted butter melted
Reserved seasoning from biscuit mix package
- Alternative Ingredients:
Cream of Chicken Soup: Substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
Frozen Vegetables: Use fresh peas and carrots or a different vegetable blend if preferred.
Biscuit Mix: Gluten-free biscuit mix can replace regular mix for gluten sensitivities.
Butter: Margarine or vegan butter can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: Substitute with mozzarella or dairy-free cheese alternatives as needed.
Chicken Broth: Use vegetable broth for a poultry-free version.
Directions
- Preparation – Preheat Prep Dish: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and evenly coat the bottom with 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Ensure complete coverage by tilting the dish if necessary.
- Layering Ingredients – Assemble Base: Evenly distribute 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken over the melted butter without stirring. Next, sprinkle 1.5 cups of frozen mixed vegetables atop the chicken layer, maintaining separation between layers.
- Mixing Sauce – Combine Liquids & Seasonings: In a mixing bowl, combine the 10.5-ounce can of herb-infused cream of chicken soup with 1.5 cups of chicken broth. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of garlic and onion powders, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper until well blended. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered chicken and vegetables.
- Preparing Biscuit Topping – Mix Ingredients: In a separate bowl, prepare the biscuit topping by mixing 8 ounces of Cheddar Biscuit Mix with 1.5 cups of whole milk. Stir until a thick batter forms, then fold in ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Assemble Bake – Final Layers: Spoon the biscuit batter evenly over the casserole. In a small bowl, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and mix in the reserved seasoning from the biscuit mix package. Drizzle this mixture over the biscuit layer to enhance flavor and browning. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Resting Serving – Final Touches: Once baked, remove the Hearty Chicken Bake from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Slice into portions and enjoy your comforting meal!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- casserole dish
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 700kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 40g
- Vitamin A: 800IU
- Vitamin C: 30mg
- Calcium: 400mg
- Iron: 3mg
FAQ- Hearty Chicken Bake
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes! You can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Just make sure to season the chicken well and allow it to cool before shredding for easier handling.
Can I freeze the Hearty Chicken Bake?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 75-85 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
Can I use a different type of biscuit mix?
Yes, you can swap the cheddar biscuit mix for a regular one or any other preferred variety. If you’re looking for a lower-fat version, use a reduced-fat biscuit mix.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair your Hearty Chicken Bake with a side of sautéed spinach, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. If you’re craving something hearty, garlic bread or cornbread are great sides.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Hearty Chicken Bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions. The flavors often get better after a day!
