Cheesy Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Fluffy Potato Dough

Cheesy Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Fluffy Potato Dough is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy topping. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and a fluffy potato dough. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this casserole is an easy and tasty option.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 onion, finely chopped – Onions provide sweetness and depth to the casserole.
3 tbsp vegetable oil (20 ml) – Used for sautéing the ingredients, adding richness to the filling.

250 g chicken breast, cubed – A lean protein that gives the casserole its hearty base.
1 green pepper, sliced – Adds color and a mild sweetness to the dish.
1 red pepper, sliced – Offers a slightly tangy flavor and vibrant color.

1 tomato, diced – Contributes freshness and a slight acidity to balance the richness.
1 tsp salt (6 g) – Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a gentle heat to the dish.

2 tbsp ketchup – Provides a touch of sweetness and acidity.
2 tbsp mayonnaise – Adds creaminess to the filling, balancing the flavors.

For the Dough

1 potato, boiled and mashed – Forms the base of the dough, providing softness and texture.

1 glass of milk (100 ml) – Helps create a smooth consistency for the dough.
2 eggs – Binds the ingredients and contributes to the fluffiness of the dough.
4 tbsp all-purpose flour (80 g) – Helps to form the dough and gives it structure.
1 tsp salt (5 g) – Enhances the flavor of the dough.
1 tsp baking powder (5 g) – Ensures the dough rises and becomes fluffy when baked.

For Topping

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds color and a fresh, herbal flavor to the dish.
300 g cheddar cheese, grated – Provides a rich, melty topping that makes the casserole irresistibly cheesy.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetable Filling

In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the cubed chicken breast to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through.
Stir in the sliced green and red peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the peppers soften.
Add the diced tomato, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
Stir in the ketchup and mayonnaise, mixing everything well. Once combined, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Dough

Boil the potato until it is soft and mash it until smooth. Allow the mashed potato to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, combine the mashed potato, milk, and eggs. Whisk until smooth and well-combined.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder, stirring to incorporate the dry ingredients. The mixture should form a thick batter-like consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Grease a medium-sized baking dish with a little oil or butter.
Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
Pour the potato dough mixture over the chicken and vegetables, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven, setting it to bake with only the bottom part of the oven open.
Bake for 20 minutes until the dough is set and slightly golden on the bottom.
After 20 minutes, open the top part of the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking

After the casserole has baked for a total of 35 minutes, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is fully melted and golden, remove the casserole from the oven.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Green Salad: Serve the casserole with a fresh green salad to add a crisp and refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Pair the casserole with warm garlic bread for a comforting side.
Steamed Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots for a balanced meal.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add extra creaminess to the casserole.

Cooking Tips

Dough Consistency: If the dough is too thick, add a bit more milk to reach a spreadable consistency.
Substitute for Chicken: For a different flavor, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even a vegetarian protein like tofu.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling and dough separately in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken: A great source of lean protein, chicken breast is low in fat and supports muscle health and repair.
Vegetables: The peppers and tomato add essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to overall wellness.
Potatoes: Potatoes provide carbohydrates for energy and are a good source of potassium, supporting heart health.
Cheddar Cheese: Rich in calcium, cheddar cheese supports bone health and provides a creamy, indulgent topping.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a combination for different flavors.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add the cheese before baking.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used instead of fresh ones. Be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the filling.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or potato flour for a gluten-free version.

5. How can I make this casserole spicier?

For extra spice, you can add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling. Adjust the heat to your preference.

Dietary Information

Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
High-Protein: With chicken breast as the main protein source, this casserole is high in protein, promoting muscle growth and repair.
Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb dish, consider using a cauliflower-based dough or reducing the potato amount.

Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is a satisfying, filling meal that combines chicken, vegetables, and cheese in every bite.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients and flavors to suit your preferences.
Family-Friendly: Perfect for feeding a crowd, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone, from kids to adults.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken and Vegetable Casserole with Fluffy Potato Dough is a delicious, all-in-one dish that combines savory chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy topping. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this casserole delivers on flavor and satisfaction. With the option for substitutions and variations, you can tailor the recipe to fit your tastes and dietary needs.