Ina Garten Chicken Casserole Recipe

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a flavorful topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this casserole is easy to make and full of flavor.

What is Ina Garten Chicken Casserole?

Chicken casserole is a one-dish meal that layers cooked chicken with a creamy sauce, vegetables, and often a crunchy topping. Ina Garten’s version elevates the classic casserole with fresh herbs, cheese, and a golden breadcrumb topping.

Other Popular Recipes

• Ina Garten Chicken Francese
• Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta
• Ina Garten Crab Salad

Reasons to Try Ina Garten Chicken Casserole

• Comfort Food: A warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Meal: Convenient for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Chicken Casserole

For the Casserole

• Cooked chicken – 4 cups, shredded or diced
• Butter – 4 tablespoons
• Yellow onion – 1 large, diced
• Carrots – 2, diced
• Celery – 2 stalks, diced
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• All-purpose flour – ¼ cup
• Chicken stock – 2 cups
• Heavy cream – 1 cup
• Frozen peas – 1 cup
• Fresh thyme – 1 teaspoon, chopped
• Salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Grated Parmesan cheese – ½ cup

For the Topping

• Breadcrumbs – 1 cup (panko preferred)
• Butter – 2 tablespoons, melted
• Grated Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup
• Chopped parsley – 1 tablespoon (optional, for garnish)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Chicken Casserole

Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.

Make the Sauce

• Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
• Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, ensuring no lumps form. Add the heavy cream and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Combine the Ingredients

• Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked chicken, peas, thyme, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Prepare the Topping

• In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese.
• Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

Bake the Casserole

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Serve

• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Chicken Casserole?

• Green Salad: Adds freshness to balance the richness.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus pair well.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: A hearty side that complements the casserole.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Chicken Casserole

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds flavor.
• Keep the Sauce Smooth: Whisk continuously when adding liquid to prevent lumps.
• Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, spinach, or corn for variety.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Golden Topping: Broil for 1-2 minutes after baking for an extra crispy topping.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Chicken Casserole

• Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese to the sauce.
• Spicy Twist: Mix in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Herb Swap: Use rosemary or sage instead of thyme for a different flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Pasta Casserole: Add cooked pasta like penne or egg noodles for a heartier dish.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Chicken Casserole

• Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes.

Nutrition Value

• Calories: ~400 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fats: 22g
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs

Can Chicken Casserole Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, chicken casserole can be made ahead of time. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

How Do You Keep Chicken Casserole from Drying Out?

To prevent the casserole from drying out, ensure there is enough sauce to keep the ingredients moist. Cover the dish with foil for the first half of the baking time, then uncover to brown the topping.

Can Chicken Casserole Be Frozen?

The chicken casserole can be frozen before or after baking. For best results, freeze it unbaked, wrapped tightly, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

What Can Be Used as a Topping for Chicken Casserole?

Breadcrumbs are a classic choice, but crushed crackers, potato chips, or even shredded cheese can be used for a crunchy, flavorful topping.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Chicken Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and golden topping, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal!

More Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Peach Cobbler
• Ina Garten Beef Chili
• Ina Garten Cottage Pie
• Barefoot Contessa Oyster Stew

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