Are you craving a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This chicken thigh casserole recipe with cream of mushroom soup is a family favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s a classic for a reason – creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken, it's the epitome of homemade cooking at its finest. This recipe offers a quick and easy way to elevate your dinner game without spending hours in the kitchen. Let's get started on this simple, yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won't stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Don't overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds so much flavor to the casserole!
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken and onion mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, milk, rice, and parsley. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Bake:
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Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and easy dinner recipe!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the cream of mushroom soup mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add vegetables: Include frozen peas, corn, or carrots for added nutrition and color.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack or Gruyere.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy and balanced meal. This is a great option for a quick dinner idea.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the exact ingredients used. Nutritional information is best calculated using a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and serving sizes.
This chicken thigh casserole is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. It's a healthy meal option that's sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy this best recipe and share it with your friends and family!