Ina Garten Chicken Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Ina Garten’s Best 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it delivers the elegant simplicity the Barefoot Contessa is famous for. For another effortless casserole option, try this Classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe. It’s a perfect, fuss-free meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

This comforting Ina Garten Chicken Casserole brings together tender chicken and vegetables in a rich, creamy sauce, topped with a golden, crispy panko crust that’s simply irresistible.

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: This Ina Garten Chicken Casserole is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it an efficient choice for a comforting weeknight meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Chicken

Season 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked through at this stage as it will finish in the oven.

Transfer the partially cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest until cool enough to handle. Then, using two forks or your hands, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 diced yellow onion. Cook over medium heat until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3 — Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle ¼ cup of all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream, ensuring no lumps remain.

Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4 — Combine the Casserole Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, the creamy sauce, 1 cup of frozen peas, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5 — Assemble the Ina Garten Chicken Casserole

Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. For a golden, crispy topping, sprinkle 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the top.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.

The internal temperature of the chicken casserole should reach 165°F (74°C) when tested with an instant-read thermometer for food safety.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Remove the Ina Garten Chicken Casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to portion.

Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve warm. This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	24g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	680mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey for chicken — Leaner protein with a similar texture and mild flavor that absorbs seasonings well.
• Cauliflower rice for white rice — Low-carb option that provides a light, fluffy base while reducing calories.
• Coconut milk for heavy cream — Dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle sweetness and creamy richness.
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs — Crispy topping without gluten, using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
• Low-sodium broth — Reduces salt content while maintaining savory depth in the Ina Garten Chicken Casserole.
• Greek yogurt for sour cream — Adds tanginess with more protein and less fat for a lighter sauce.
• Quinoa for rice — Higher-protein, gluten-free grain that offers a nutty flavor and complete nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this comforting Ina Garten Chicken Casserole with a crisp arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside roasted asparagus or green beans to complement the rich, creamy texture of the casserole.
• This Ina Garten Chicken Casserole is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, as it travels well and serves a crowd.
• For a cozy weeknight dinner, plate individual portions in shallow bowls to contain the delicious sauce.
• Elevate a casual brunch by serving this hearty chicken casserole with buttery biscuits or crusty bread.
• Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

This versatile Ina Garten Chicken Casserole can be dressed up for a dinner party or kept simple for a satisfying family meal, making it a reliable favorite for any occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using raw chicken directly in the casserole. Fix: Always pre-cook and shred the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked and flavorful.
• Mistake: Overloading with creamy sauces, making it soupy. Fix: Use the sauce-to-filling ratio Ina Garten specifies for perfect consistency.
• Mistake: Skipping the step of seasoning each component. Fix: Season the chicken, vegetables, and sauce separately for a well-balanced Ina Garten Chicken Casserole.
• Mistake: Using low-fat dairy that can curdle when baked. Fix: Stick to full-fat dairy like heavy cream or whole milk for a stable, creamy texture.
• Mistake: Not toasting breadcrumbs or nuts for the topping. Fix: Toast them lightly before sprinkling to add crunch and prevent sogginess.
• Mistake: Baking at the wrong temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fix: Preheat your oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) as most Ina Garten casserole recipes recommend.
• Mistake: Overmixing the casserole ingredients, which can break down textures. Fix: Gently fold components together to maintain distinct layers and flavors.
• Mistake: Using watery vegetables like raw tomatoes without pre-treatment. Fix: Sauté or roast vegetables first to remove excess moisture.
• Mistake: Rushing the resting time after baking. Fix: Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes so it sets and is easier to serve.
• Mistake: Substituting fresh herbs with dried ones in equal amounts. Fix: Use one-third the amount if using dried, as they are more potent.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store your Ina Garten Chicken Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat in a 350°F oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 20-30 minutes for a full casserole.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your Ina Garten Chicken Casserole reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Conclusion

This Ina Garten Chicken Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any family dinner or potluck. For more comforting sides, try our Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe or Spicy Jalapeño Cornbread Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments!

Print

FAQs

Can I make this Ina Garten Chicken Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the Ina Garten Chicken Casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.

What is the best way to store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover Ina Garten Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the pasta with a different short shape like penne or fusilli. The key is to use a pasta that holds the creamy sauce well in this delicious Ina Garten Chicken Casserole.