Chicken Asparagus Supreme
Creamy chicken and asparagus bake with cheesy bread topping, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix bread cubes with grated cheese.
- Pour 1/4 cup melted butter over the bread and cheese mixture and mix lightly.
- Spread half of the bread-cheese mixture in a baking dish.
- Cook asparagus until tender and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
- Add flour, salt, and pepper; blend well and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually stir in milk and chicken broth, cooking until thickened and smooth.
- Add cooked chicken and lemon juice; blend well.
- Place cooked asparagus over the bread-cheese mixture in the dish.
- Top with chicken in sauce.
- Sprinkle remaining bread cubes-cheese-butter mixture over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of cheeses such as cheddar and mozzarella. If you're out of chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can work in a pinch. To save time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Ensure the asparagus is not overcooked to maintain its vibrant color and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted potatoes or a warm baguette. It also complements well with light, fruity wines or iced tea. Consider serving it as a main dish for gatherings or family dinners, similar to Maw-Maw'S Chicken Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Asparagus Supreme contains roughly 755 calories, with 7g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 63g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (223% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1990mg per serving (87% 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 fresh asparagus instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh asparagus. Just blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender before adding it to the dish. This will ensure it retains a nice crunch and vibrant color in the final bake.
What can I substitute for the bread cubes?
If you don’t have bread cubes, you can use croutons or even cooked rice for a gluten-free option. Just be mindful that the texture and flavor will change slightly, so adjust seasonings accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven for even cooking.
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).