Food Favorites – A Comforting Recipe You’ll Love
Food has a magical way of bringing people together, whether it’s around a family dinner table, at a festive celebration, or simply during a quiet evening at home. Comfort meals, in particular, often become personal food favorites because they not only satisfy hunger but also nourish the soul. Among all-time favorites, nothing quite compares to a warm, homemade creamy chicken and vegetable casserole. It’s hearty, flavorful, and versatile enough to fit into busy weeknights or special gatherings.
This dish combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce baked to perfection with a golden topping. It balances taste, nutrition, and comfort in one pan — making it a true favorite for families. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious recipe at home.
You can also learn about: Chicken Recipes
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast | 2 (about 12 oz) | 330 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | 12 |
| Carrots, sliced | 2 medium | 50 |
| Broccoli florets | 1 cup | 55 |
| Mushrooms, sliced | 1 cup | 20 |
| Low-fat milk | 1 cup | 100 |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup | 15 |
| Whole wheat flour | 2 tbsp | 60 |
| Shredded mozzarella | 1/2 cup | 160 |
| Whole wheat breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup | 100 |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | — |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken – Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown. Set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables – In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms until softened. Add broccoli and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce – Whisk flour into the pan, then slowly add milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Everything – Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce with vegetables. Stir well to coat.
- Assemble the Casserole – Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake – Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve – Let cool slightly before serving for the best texture.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for turkey, shrimp, or tofu.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk with vegan cheese.
- Extra Crunch: Add crushed almonds or walnuts to the breadcrumb topping.
- Flavor Boost: Mix in herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fresh twist.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or skip the topping.
Also Read: Summer Recipes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 4)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~430 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 7g |
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve with garlic bread if you want a more indulgent side.
- Enjoy leftovers for lunch — it reheats beautifully.
- Perfect for meal prep: make ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Food Favorites – A Comforting Recipe You’ll Love
4
servings20
minutes30
minutes300
kcalIngredients
2 boneless chicken breasts (about 12 oz)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup low-fat milk
1 cup chicken broth
2 tbsp whole wheat flour
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Cut chicken into cubes, season with salt and pepper, and cook in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms until softened. Add broccoli and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Sprinkle flour into the pan, whisking well. Slowly add milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and thickened. Season to taste.
- Return the chicken to the sauce and mix well.
- Transfer everything to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and breadcrumbs.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm.
Recipe Video
Notes
- or the best texture, use freshly cooked chicken instead of pre-cooked or canned. If you prefer a richer taste, swap low-fat milk with cream, but keep in mind the calorie increase.
FAQs
1. What makes a recipe a “food favorite”?
A food favorite is usually a dish that combines comfort, taste, and ease of preparation. It’s the kind of recipe people return to often because it feels familiar, satisfying, and enjoyable.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish, assemble it in a baking dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot.
4. Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely. Freeze the baked casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly recipe. If cooking for kids, you can reduce the garlic or seasoning slightly and add extra cheese for a creamier flavor they’ll love.
6. What sides go best with this dish?
Light salads, roasted veggies, or simple garlic bread pair well. For a healthier option, steamed greens like spinach or asparagus are a great match.
Conclusion
Comforting, balanced, and full of flavor, this casserole recipe truly deserves a place on your list of food favorites. It’s versatile enough to customize, nutritious enough for everyday dining, and delicious enough to bring smiles to the table every time it’s served. Whether you’re preparing a quick weekday dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is bound to become one of your go-to recipes.
