The aroma of a bubbling Chicken and Peas Creamy Casserole wafting through the kitchen is nothing short of magical. Imagine crispy chicken nestled in a velvety sauce, mingling with vibrant green peas—an instant invitation for hungry tummies.
This dish has a special place in my heart as it reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air. It’s that comforting meal that brings everyone together for cozy evenings around the dinner table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken and Peas Creamy Casserole is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners easy
- The delightful flavors will have your guests asking for seconds
- Its beautiful presentation makes it a feast for the eyes, too
- Versatile enough to add any veggies you have lying around!
I still remember the first time I served this casserole at a family dinner; my cousin fought valiantly over the last scoop!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on how many mouths you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; fresh garlic elevates the entire dish.
- Frozen Peas: Fresh or frozen work great; they add color and sweetness to your casserole.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess without too much hassle; opt for low-sodium if you prefer.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese on top gives a delightful golden crust that pulls everything together.
- Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle on top for a crunchy texture contrast; panko breadcrumbs are a fun upgrade!
- Olive Oil: Use it to sauté the garlic and chicken, infusing rich flavors into the dish.
- Dried Thyme: This herb adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor profile of your casserole.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
First things first:
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven ensures even cooking and helps achieve that beautiful golden color.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until they turn white and opaque.
Add Garlic: Toss in minced garlic once the chicken is nearly cooked through. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds should do it.
Add Soup and Peas: Stir in cream of mushroom soup along with frozen peas. Mix until everything is well combined—this creates your creamy goodness!
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese into the mixture. Stir gently until melted—who can resist gooey cheese?
Bake It Up: Transfer everything to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs for crunch. Bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly.
And voilà! Your Chicken and Peas Creamy Casserole is ready to impress!
Enjoy this comforting dish as a family favorite or serve it up at your next gathering—it’s bound to be a hit!
You Must Know
- This Chicken and Peas Creamy Casserole is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with sweet peas in a creamy sauce
- The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table, while the texture keeps them coming back for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the chicken in a skillet, then cook the onions and garlic before adding peas and cream. This sequence ensures rich flavors and perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or add mushrooms for extra earthiness. A sprinkle of cheese on top creates a delightful crust.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to elevate flavor; don’t overcook the chicken for tenderness; and ensure the sauce thickens properly by simmering gently
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone dug into this casserole, making laughter echo around the table as they complimented my cooking skills.
FAQ
Can I use frozen peas in Chicken and Peas Creamy Casserole?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly and save you prep time.
How long does it take to cook Chicken and Peas Creamy Casserole?
Cooking usually takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.
What are some side dishes to serve with this casserole?
Consider serving with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Chicken and Peas Creamy Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chicken and Peas Creamy Casserole is a cozy dish that brings together tender chicken and sweet peas in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper; cook until white and opaque.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Mix in the cream of mushroom soup and frozen peas until well combined.
- Fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Substitute turkey for chicken for a different twist. Add mushrooms or other veggies for extra flavor and nutrition. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the taste.