Are you craving a comforting, homemade meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Chicken Cobbler recipe with Cheddar Bay Biscuits is the perfect answer for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. Forget complicated recipes; this one is a masterclass in simple, satisfying food, perfect for busy weeknights. It combines the hearty goodness of a chicken pot pie with the delightful flakiness of homemade biscuits, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Cobbler:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, carrots)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Chicken Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Stir in the chicken broth, mixed vegetables, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in half of the cheddar cheese. Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Making the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the milk until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the remaining cheddar cheese and parsley (if using).
- Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
Baking the Cobbler:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the chicken is bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Cobbler:
- For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts from scratch. This will significantly reduce your prep time!
- Don't overmix the biscuit dough; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing will result in tough biscuits.
- If you want a crispier topping, broil the cobbler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend would all be delicious.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Cobbler: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Chicken Cobbler: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the chicken filling.
- Creamy Chicken Cobbler: Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the chicken mixture before baking for a richer, creamier dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Chicken Cobbler with Cheddar Bay Biscuits is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies. It's a fantastic example of how easy and delicious homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!