The Ultimate Chicken Casserole Recipe for a Cosy UK Dinner
This chicken casserole recipe brings warmth and comfort to any table in the UK. I stumbled upon this recipe when I was in search of a hearty meal that didn’t require fancy equipment or extra fuss. The result is a satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, fresh vegetables and a rich, savoury sauce – all easily made using your conventional oven.
The dish is not only easy to prepare but is also adaptable. With common ingredients you probably already have at home, you can create a home-cooked meal perfect for family dinners or a relaxed weekend treat. The clear, step-by-step instructions make it simple for beginners to whip up a delicious casserole that fills the kitchen with a mouth-watering aroma.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Recipe
- No fancy gadgets required. Use your reliable conventional oven and basic kitchen tools.
- Rich, comforting flavours. The mix of herbs and the slow-cooked sauce produces a deep, satisfying taste.
- Hearty and nourishing. This full meal delivers on both taste and nutrition, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
- Versatile for family meals. It works well for a busy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests without hassle.
Ingredients
Below are the main ingredients needed to make this chicken casserole, using UK measurements for your convenience.
- 1.5 kg chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks recommended)
- 500 g potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 300 g carrots, sliced thickly
- 250 g parsnips, cut into chunky pieces
- 2 medium onions, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 300 ml chicken stock
- 200 ml double cream (optional for extra richness)
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: 150 g mushrooms, sliced
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C. While it warms up, wash and chop the vegetables. Pat the chicken dry and season it with salt, pepper, thyme and rosemary. This initial seasoning helps the flavours build as the dish cooks.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large, ovenproof casserole dish or heavy pan. Add the onions and garlic, cooking until they are soft and lightly golden. If you are using mushrooms, add them at this point so their flavour blends in.
3. Brown the Chicken
Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the pan and brown them on all sides for about 5–7 minutes. This step seals in the juices and adds an extra layer of flavour before the slow bake.
4. Combine Vegetables and Stock
Arrange the potatoes, carrots and parsnips around and on top of the chicken. Pour in the chicken stock and stir in the tomato purée. The liquid should come up to about halfway up the ingredients, forming a savoury base that deepens in flavour as it cooks.
5. Bake in the Oven
Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake for 60 minutes. Then, remove the cover and check the sauce. If you are using double cream for extra richness, stir it in and return the dish uncovered for another 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This pause allows the flavours to settle and the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve your chicken casserole hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For a less creamy version, skip the double cream and let the chicken stock reduce naturally.
- Add a splash of white wine when deglazing the pan to give the dish a slight twist.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, include a finely chopped red chilli or a pinch of smoked paprika when browning the chicken.
- Swap parsnips with sweet potatoes for a variation that brings a hint of sweetness into the mix.
- Leftovers are even better the next day. Store extra casserole in an airtight container and gently reheat on the stove or in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other cuts of chicken?
A: Yes, you can substitute with a whole chicken cut into pieces or even boneless breast. Just adjust the cooking time to keep the meat moist.
Q: Should I cover the casserole?
A: Covering most of the baking process helps retain moisture, while removing the cover at the end allows the sauce to thicken and the top to brown.
Q: How do I know if it’s fully cooked?
A: The chicken should reach about 75°C and be tender, and the vegetables should be soft. A meat thermometer can help check for doneness.
Share Your Chicken Casserole Experience!
I’d love to hear how this chicken casserole adds comfort to your kitchen. Experiment with extra herbs or different vegetables to put your own spin on the recipe. Enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect any day and happy cooking!