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Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they’re tender. You can use frozen vegetables if fresh isn’t available, just be sure to drain any excess water.
- Combine the Chicken and Soup: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir everything together until well mixed. Season with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and paprika for extra flavor.
- Layer the Casserole: Pour the mixture into a large, greased baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is great with a side salad or some crusty bread.
Tips for Successful Batch-Making
- Double or Triple the Recipe: If you’re feeding a large family or want to have leftovers, double or triple the recipe. Just make sure you have enough room in your oven or on your stovetop to handle the larger quantities.
- Freeze Leftovers: This casserole freezes beautifully! After cooking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
- Adjust the Recipe for Preferences: Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey, beef, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. You can also add other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Make It Your Own: Add extra seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick. You can even switch up the cheese to suit your tastes.
Batch-Making for Busy Families
Batch-making doesn’t just apply to casseroles; it works wonders for any recipe that can be scaled up easily. Consider batch-making these popular dishes as well:
- Soup: A big pot of soup can last for days and is even better the next day. Try beef stew, chicken noodle soup, or vegetable chili.
- Pasta: Make a huge pot of pasta and pair it with a hearty sauce like Bolognese or alfredo. Pasta dishes are perfect for leftovers and reheat well.
- Stir-Fries: Stir-fries are quick to make and can be customized with various proteins and vegetables, making them perfect for batch cooking.
- Meatballs or Meatloaf: Make a large batch and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. You can even freeze individual portions for later.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to make enough food for the whole family, batch-making is the secret to keeping everyone happy and satisfied. With this approach, you can avoid the stress of constantly making more food and focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones. From casseroles to soups, the options are endless. Plus, leftovers mean you’ll have meals ready for the days ahead, making your life just a little bit easier.
Try out Savory Chicken and Vegetable Casserole, and don’t be surprised when it disappears faster than you can make it!
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