The Easiest Chicken Bake Casserole Recipe Your Family Will Love

This Easiest Chicken Bake Casserole Recipe is packed with tender chicken, creamy ingredients, and cheesy goodness, this hassle-free recipe comes together in no time, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Say goodbye to complicated cooking and hello to a comforting dish everyone will crave!

For the Garlic and Herb Toast:

• 1 loaf of crusty bread (such as French bread, baguette, or ciabatta)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or fresh parsley, thyme, oregano)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chicken and Sauce:

• 2 large chicken breasts (or thighs), shredded
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes (for moisture)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor)

For the Braised Vegetables:

• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For Assembling:

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (use a mix of mozzarella and cheddar if you like)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Garlic and Herb Toast:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Slice the bread into thick slices, about 1-inch wide.
• Mix the softened butter, minced garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
• Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each bread slice.
• Arrange the buttered slices in a single layer in a baking tray (you may need to overlap them slightly).
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season the chicken breasts with smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric (if using), salt, and pepper.
• Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, until browned and cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and shred it with two forks. Set aside.
• In the same pan, add the chicken broth and tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes) and bring to a simmer.
• Return the shredded chicken to the pan, toss to coat, and let it simmer for another 3-5 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly. Adjust the seasoning with soy sauce or salt as needed. Set aside.

3. Braised Vegetables:

• In another pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the sliced onions and bell peppers, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
• Add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their juices.
• Season with salt, pepper, balsamic vinegar (if using), and a pinch of sugar (optional). Let it all cook down into a thick, flavorful mixture. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the Dish:

• In a large baking dish or tray, layer the garlic and herb toast slices in an even layer.
• Spread a layer of the braised onion, pepper, and tomato mixture over the toast.
• Add a layer of the shredded, saucy chicken on top of the vegetables.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken.
• If you want extra cheesy goodness, you can sprinkle a bit more cheese on top.

5. Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if it’s not already.
• Bake the assembled dish for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden, and the dish is bubbling around the edges.

6. Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes.
• Use a large spoon or spatula to carefully pull apart the layers of toast, chicken, and cheese. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

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Tips:

• For extra flavor: Add a drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze on top after baking.
• Make it spicy: Add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the chicken and vegetables in advance and store them in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

This dish is great for sharing and can be served as a hearty appetizer or main course. Enjoy!