Chicken And Asparagus Au Gratin
A comforting chicken and asparagus au gratin featuring crispy bread crumbs, melted cheddar, and tender asparagus, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix bread cubes with cheese and 1/4 cup of the melted butter.
- Line a 7 x 11 x 1 1/2-inch dish with half of the bread cubes.
- Arrange the canned asparagus on top of the bread cubes.
- Melt the remaining butter over medium heat.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until well mixed and the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked, diced chicken to the sauce.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the asparagus in the dish.
- Sprinkle the rest of the bread cubes and cheese mixture on top.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using fresh asparagus instead of canned for a brighter flavor. If you're short on bread crumbs, crushed crackers or panko can serve as a great substitute. Ensure your chicken is well-seasoned before adding it to the sauce for enhanced flavor. Also, adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce can elevate the dish, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables for balance. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Quick Spicy Chicken Salad or a fresh fruit salad. A glass of crisp white wine can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Cover with foil if the top gets too brown. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread topping soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Asparagus Au Gratin contains roughly 1399 calories, with 18g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (118% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1137mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, you can experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a blend for a unique flavor profile. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, so adjust your baking time accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
What can I substitute for the chicken?
If you're looking for alternatives, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. For a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms and spinach to create a delicious meatless version. This could also be a perfect filling for the 'Oh So Good' Casserole.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).