This Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole is a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender chicken breasts, fresh asparagus, crispy bacon, and cheesy potatoes, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this mouth-watering dish!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 3 cups of diced potatoes (about 1/2-inch cubes)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
- Season and Sear the Chicken:
- Season the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In the same skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
- Add the asparagus pieces and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, crispy bacon, and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth.
- Layer the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the vegetable and bacon mixture. Place the seared chicken breasts on top. Pour the cream and broth mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Spread the remaining vegetable and bacon mixture over the chicken. Top with 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves if desired. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Chicken: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- Vegetables: Make sure to cut the potatoes into small, even cubes to ensure they cook through.
Variations:
- Add More Vegetables:
- Include bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
- Cheese Variations:
- Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyere for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen asparagus?
Yes, you can use frozen asparagus. Thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet with the other vegetables.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
4. What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve this casserole with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
The Hearty Delight of Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole
This Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, fresh asparagus, crispy bacon, and cheesy potatoes. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese will enhance the flavor of the casserole.
- Even Slicing: Ensure the potatoes and vegetables are cut into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially the salt and pepper.
The Asparagus & Bacon Chicken Potato Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh asparagus, and cheesy potatoes, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe for your next meal and enjoy a comforting and satisfying dish. Happy cooking!
