Sure, let’s dive into the delicious world of Italian Chicken Casserole! 🍗🥔 This savory dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, and it’s bound to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. With succulent chicken thighs, tender potatoes, and a flavorful tomato sauce, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Italian Chicken Casserole Recipe
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 8 | Chicken thighs |
| 3 | Potatoes |
| 1 | Onion |
| 1 can | Canned tomatoes |
| 1 tsp | Dried basil |
| 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 1/2 tsp | Black pepper |
| 4 tbsp | Olive oil |
| Parsley (for garnish) |
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the Chicken: Start by washing the chicken thighs and removing the skin. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown nicely. Season the thighs with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour until coated evenly.
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Brown the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and fry them just until they are lightly browned on all sides. This step helps to lock in the juices and adds flavor to the dish.
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Assemble the Casserole: Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the browned chicken thighs in a single layer at the bottom of the dish. Next, slice the potatoes into rounds and place them in between the chicken pieces. Thinly slice the onion and layer it over the potatoes.
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Add the Tomato Sauce: Spoon the canned tomatoes over the onions, distributing them evenly across the dish. Sprinkle the dried basil over the tomatoes, and season everything with a bit more salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle the top of the casserole with olive oil for added richness.
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Bake: Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Check and Stir: After 30 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and give it a gentle stir to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated in the delicious tomato sauce. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
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Baste and Garnish: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, baste the chicken and potatoes with the pan juices to keep them moist and flavorful. Once the casserole is done, transfer it to a serving dish, pour any remaining juices over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: Italian Chicken Casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. Pair it with a side salad, some crusty bread, or your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that the whole family will love!
This Italian Chicken Casserole recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, thanks to its simplicity, flavor, and heartiness. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving some comfort food, this dish delivers on all fronts. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Italy right in your own home! Buon appetito! 🇮🇹🍽️
