Description
This Chicken Casserole with Asparagus and Mozzarella is a comforting, cheesy, and wholesome one-pan dish that’s as perfect for weeknight dinners as it is for family gatherings. Juicy chicken is baked with crisp-tender asparagus, creamy sauce, and melty mozzarella for a meal that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor.
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Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup milk or half-and-half
1 tbsp flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
1 tbsp olive oil
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried Italian herbs or thyme
Optional: ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (for a hint of heat)
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking dish lightly with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and herbs, and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned (it doesn’t need to be fully cooked through yet).
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic.
Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the onion-garlic mixture and stir to coat.
Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Stir in ¼ cup of Parmesan and half of the mozzarella. Mix until melted.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked chicken, asparagus pieces, and creamy sauce.
Toss gently to distribute evenly.
Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Add red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden, and the asparagus is tender.
If you prefer a crispier top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve hot with rice, pasta, or crusty bread
Notes
Use Fresh Asparagus – Trim woody ends and cut evenly for even cooking
Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Slightly undercook before baking so it stays juicy
Shred Your Own Cheese – It melts better than pre-shredded varieties
Add More Veggies – Try mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes
Make It Creamier – Add a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American