Savory Mediterranean Chicken Artichoke Casserole

Mediterranean Baked Chicken Casserole Recipe

Overview:

This Mediterranean Baked Chicken Casserole combines the rich flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and Swiss cheese in a hearty dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. It’s a one-dish meal that’s easy to prepare and bake in your oven, ideal for serving alongside a loaf of crusty Italian bread and a glass of wine for a complete dining experience.

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 6 oz rotini pasta (about 3 cups)
• 1/4 cup butter
• 3 shallots, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 4 oz Swiss cheese, shredded
• 3 oz sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
• 1/2 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

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   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly butter a 2-quart casserole dish and set it aside.

2. Cook Rotini:

   • Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare Sauce:

   • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and cook for about 1 minute until softened.
   • Stir in the all-purpose flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to create a roux.

4. Add Chicken Broth:

   • Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.

5. Incorporate Mushrooms:

   • Add the sliced fresh mushrooms to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for a few minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the sauce has thickened.

6. Melt Cheese:

   • Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until it melts and blends into the sauce.

7. Combine Ingredients:

   • To the cheese sauce in the skillet, add the cooked rotini pasta, shredded or cubed chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, quartered artichoke hearts, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together until well combined.

8. Bake the Casserole:

   • Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly throughout.

9. Serve:

   • Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 443.2 kcal
• Total Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9.9 g
• Cholesterol: 90.2 mg
• Sodium: 428.9 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4.4 g
  • Sugars: 2.2 g
• Protein: 31.1 g

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Vegetarian: Replace chicken with chickpeas or extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Options: Substitute Swiss cheese with Gruyère or Fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Herbs: Add fresh basil or oregano along with parsley for extra Mediterranean freshness.
• Storage: This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

This Mediterranean Baked Chicken Casserole is a versatile dish that brings together savory flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table, whether for a cozy family meal or entertaining guests. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with each bite, and savor the simplicity of preparing this delicious casserole in your own kitchen!