There’s nothing worse than coming home after a long day and facing hours of prep and cooking in the kitchen. We’ve all been there, trying to decipher complicated recipes while battling fatigue. That’s why I love my slow cooker! It’s a lifesaver for creating delicious meals with minimal effort. This week, I whipped up a simple yet satisfying chicken casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights. And the best part? It can be made in the oven too, so everyone can enjoy it.
This chicken casserole is all about flexibility. Feel free to swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand, from classic carrots and celery to zucchini and mushrooms. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. To make it even easier, I prep all the ingredients beforehand, then toss them into the slow cooker (or oven). Let the magic happen while you relax and enjoy some well-deserved downtime.
Ingredients (serves four):
* 600g boneless chicken thigh fillets/drumsticks/breasts (I used chicken breasts)
* Four carrots, chopped
* Two stalks of celery, sliced
* Two garlic cloves, crushed
* One onion, peeled and sliced
* 500g potatoes, chopped into chunks
* Two teaspoons of dried mixed herbs
* Two bay leaves
* Two chicken stock cubes/pots
* 500ml boiling water
* Three tablespoons of gravy granules, to thicken
Method:
1. Start by prepping all the ingredients, excluding the gravy granules. I love adding a mix of vegetables to my casserole, but you can use whatever you have in your fridge.
2. Once everything is prepped, combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for nine hours. Alternatively, you can cook it on high for four to six hours if you’re short on time.
4. If you’re using the oven, preheat it to 160 degrees Celsius (325 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for two and a half hours.
5. About 30 minutes before the casserole is finished cooking, remove the lid (or oven dish) and stir in three tablespoons of gravy granules. This will thicken the sauce and create a rich, flavorful gravy. Let the casserole simmer for the final 30 minutes with the lid off to allow the sauce to thicken further.
6. If you’re pressed for time, simply stir in the gravy granules until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Serve your chicken casserole with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even a simple salad. I love pairing it with two slices of stone-baked ciabatta for a truly satisfying meal.
This slow cooker chicken casserole is a delicious and easy weeknight dinner solution. It’s perfect for busy schedules and can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences. Get creative with your ingredients and enjoy a hassle-free and flavorful meal!
