Can I make Ina Garten Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, follow the instructions and enjoy a quick and easy meal.

Can I freeze Ina Garten Chicken Casserole?

Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the casserole (without baking), cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

What can I use as a topping for the casserole?

While breadcrumbs are traditional, you can also use crushed crackers, potato chips, or even shredded cheese for a different twist. Get creative with toppings for added flavor and texture!

How do I keep my Chicken Casserole from drying out?

To prevent the casserole from drying out, ensure there’s enough sauce to keep the dish moist. You can cover the casserole with foil for the first half of the baking time and then uncover it to allow the topping to crisp up.

Ina Garten Chicken Casserole Recipe – Easy Comfort Food

Name: Ina Garten Chicken Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced); 4 tablespoons butter; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups chicken stock; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred); 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping); ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping); 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Description

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and a flavorful, crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
4 tablespoons butter
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, ensuring no lumps form. Add the heavy cream and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked chicken, peas, thyme, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Make sure to whisk continuously when adding liquids to prevent lumps in the sauce.
Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or corn to customize the recipe.
You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end to achieve a golden, crispy topping.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg