Creamy Pesto Chicken and Potato Casserole

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 4 cups diced potatoes (about 2 large potatoes)
• 1 cup prepared pesto
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large skillet, cook chicken pieces in a bit of olive oil until browned, then set aside.
3. 3 In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. 4 Stir in diced potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking for 5 minutes.
5. 5 In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, potatoes, pesto, and heavy cream.
6. 6 Transfer mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. 7 Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
8. 8 Bake uncovered for 40 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
9. 9 Remove from oven, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
10. 10 Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. 11 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl

Variations

• Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Add mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost.

Substitutions

• Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the creamy sauce.
• Substitute pesto with a mix of basil, olive oil, and Parmesan for a homemade touch.

Pairings

• A crisp Chardonnay complements this dish.
• A side of garlic bread is always a hit.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, use homemade pesto.
• Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the casserole's texture.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad.
• Pair with warm crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

FAQ