With this Swiss Chicken Casserole recipe, you can embrace the warmth of home-cooked goodness, creating a creamy and comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Tender chicken breasts are smothered in a rich and cheesy sauce, served alongside nutritious broccoli, and topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. With its irresistible flavors and hearty texture, this casserole is ideal for family dinners and gatherings. Enjoy a delicious meal with Swiss Chicken Casserole! π§ππ₯¦.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until smooth to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Arrange the blanched broccoli florets in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Place the cooked chicken breasts on top of the broccoli.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken and broccoli, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese and shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the sauce.
Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake to Perfection:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice the Swiss Chicken Casserole into portions and serve warm.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving Size: This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes and accompanying sides.
Optional Tips:
- Add sliced mushrooms or diced bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Swap out the Swiss cheese for Gruyère cheese for a more authentic Swiss flavor.
- Customize the sauce by adding a splash of white wine or a dollop of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
In conclusion, Swiss Chicken Casserole is a delectable combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese baked to perfection in one comforting dish. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole’s irresistible flavors and satisfying texture will not disappoint. Enjoy the hearty goodness of Swiss Chicken Casserole with your loved ones! π§ππ₯¦β¨