Chicken bacon casserole  Recipe 

Chicken bacon casserole  Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (about 900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz (340g) cooked bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese (or more to taste)
• 1 1/2 cups (150g) frozen peas (optional)
• 1 cup (100g) frozen corn (optional)
• 2 cups (200g) cooked pasta (optional, like penne or rotini)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook for 3-4 minutes until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes.

5. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the heavy cream and sour cream, allowing the mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

6. Assemble the Casserole: In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked chicken, bacon, frozen peas, frozen corn, and cooked pasta (if using). Pour the creamy sauce over the top and stir everything together until evenly combined.

7. Bake: Sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top is golden and slightly crispy.

8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious chicken bacon casserole!

This casserole is very customizable! You can add other vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor.