When serving a comforting dish like chicken pot pie casserole, the right sides can elevate the entire meal. A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great choice, offering a refreshing contrast to the casserole's hearty richness and adding vibrant color to your plate.
Crisp, buttery garlic bread is another irresistible pairing, perfect for soaking up any extra creamy filling that drips off the casserole. For added nutrition and crunch, lightly steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans are excellent choices.
Finally, a refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast, balancing the savory flavors of the casserole and adding a burst of freshness to your meal. These sides create a perfect complement to the comforting, satisfying main dish.
What is Chicken Pot Pie Casserole?
Chicken pot pie casserole is an unpretentious yet satisfying dish. It takes the traditional elements of a classic chicken pot pie and transforms it into a casserole format. Instead of rolling out dough and carefully forming crusts, this recipe uses refrigerated dough sheets.
This makes it perfect for busy nights when you want to whip up something hearty without spending ages in the kitchen. Imagine a filling that is creamy and rich, packed with tender chicken and colorful veggies, all under a golden layer of baked dough.
Why This Recipe Works?
This chicken pot pie casserole isn’t just convenient; it’s also crafted with a thoughtful approach. Here's why this recipe shines:
- Simplicity of Preparation: The steps are straightforward. Toss ingredients together, arrange them in a casserole dish, and bake. You can whip this dish up in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of chicken, veggies, and creamy soup creates a feeling of nostalgia. It’s a dish that warms not just the body but also the soul, reminding you of home-cooked family meals.
- Customization Options: One of the beauties of this recipe is its versatility. You can tweak the vegetables or seasoning according to your family’s preferences. Want to add some corn? Go for it! Prefer a bit more spice? Just throw in some hot sauce.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers heat up beautifully. This makes it a fantastic candidate for meal prepping. You can easily make a double batch and enjoy it again later without losing quality in flavor.
Ingredients You'll Need To Make This Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Gather these essential ingredients to kickstart your casserole adventure!
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 1 Medium Onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups Thawed Frozen Diced Potatoes
- 12 oz Thawed Frozen Peas and Carrots Blend
- 2 Cans Creamy Chicken Soup (Condensed)
- 1 cup Water
- 1/2 tsp Poultry Herb Blend
- Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
- 2 Cans Refrigerated Crescent Dough Sheets
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 1 tbsp Fresh Chopped Parsley
How To Make This?
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making this mouthwatering dish.
Step 1: Preheat The Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and the crust turns out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Cook The Chicken
In a skillet, cook the chicken breasts over medium heat. You can cube the chicken beforehand or leave it whole; either option works. Sauté until the chicken is no longer pink inside, which usually takes 5-7 minutes. If you prefer, you can also use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
Step 3: Sauté The Onions
Add the finely chopped onion into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent. This step builds a flavor foundation for your casserole.
Step 4: Mix The Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken and onions with the thawed diced potatoes, peas and carrots blend, creamy chicken soup, water, sour cream, poultry herb blend, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Prepare The Casserole
Spread the chicken mixture evenly into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Step 6: Layer The Dough
Roll out the crescent dough sheets and place them over the chicken mixture. You can cut the dough to fit or press down to cover the entire surface. Don’t worry about making it perfect; a rustic look adds charm!
Step 7: Bake The Casserole
Sprinkle some extra salt and pepper on top of the dough, if desired. Pop your casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish And Serve
Once baked, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Tips
- Use Cooked Chicken: If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked chicken will speed up the prep process significantly.
- Experiment With Veggies: Don’t hesitate to switch up the vegetables; bell peppers, corn, or even spinach can give a different twist.
- Add Spice: A pinch of cayenne or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can perk up the flavor.
- Flaky Crust Trick: For an extra flaky crust, refrigerate the crescent dough before placing it on the casserole.
- Double The Recipe: This dish freezes well, so consider making a double batch for future meals.
How to Store The Leftovers?
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is likely, given how satisfying this dish is), store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the casserole.
Just ensure it has completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can last frozen for about 2-3 months.
What are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Chicken Pot Pie Casserole?
When serving chicken pot pie casserole, you may want some delicious sides to complement the meal. Here are a few to consider:
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and just the right amount of garlic flavor. They pair famously with the creamy casserole.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad featuring crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing brings a refreshing crunch to your plate.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a crunch factor. The tang of the dressing beautifully contrasts with the rich filling.
- Mashed Potatoes: Adding a side of mashed potatoes might seem excessive, but they offer an excellent opportunity for extra gravy or sauce.
If the Ingredients Are Not Available in Your Pantry, What Are Some Substitute Options?
Sometimes, you might find yourself missing an ingredient. Here’s what you can substitute:
- Chicken: Use turkey breast instead, or for a vegetarian option, replace it with cooked chickpeas or mushrooms.
- Creamy Chicken Soup: If you don’t have it, you can make a homemade version using heavy cream, broth, and flour to thicken.
- Sour Cream: Plain yogurt works in a pinch, creating a similar tangy flavor.
- Crescent Dough: Puff pastry or biscuit dough can serve as an alternative if crescent rolls aren’t available.
Conclusion
Incorporating this chicken pot pie casserole into your weekly meal rotation is a wise choice. It offers a delightful blend of flavor, comfort, and convenience, all while being adaptable to suit your family's preferences.
Whether you're gathering around the table with loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to satisfy any appetite.
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a dish that’s not only a feast for the stomach but also a balm for the soul. So why wait? Gather your ingredients today and dive into this delightful casserole experience!
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