Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grab your chicken thighs. Trim any excess fat and cut them into bite-sized pieces. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in the broccoli florets and sliced leeks. Cook these until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender, around 3-4 minutes. You want the veggies to maintain some crunch as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, yogurt, mustard, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Whisk until well mixed and smooth. This creamy mixture will provide a luscious texture to our casserole.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed chicken and vegetables. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish.
Step 5: Add Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top, followed by the cheddar cheese. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Serve
- Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish can be enjoyed hot, and it will smell divine!
Notes
- Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor and texture. Frozen chicken is fine but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
- Experiment with Spices: Add your favorite spices or herbs like thyme or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: Using a blend of cheeses can elevate the flavor complexity. Try adding some mozzarella or gouda.
- Prep Ahead: You can mix the ingredients ahead of time and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Keep it Moist: Consider adding a bit more cream or broth if you prefer a creamier consistency.
