Chicken Casserole With Apples And Cheese
A hearty chicken casserole featuring sweet apples, melted Swiss and Parmesan cheeses, and aromatic herbs, perfect for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- 5 Tbsp butter
- 3 medium red cooking apples, cored and sliced ⓘ
- 3 boneless chicken breasts, halved ⓘ
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp pepper ⓘ
- 1 tsp salt ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp thyme ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 2 large onions, sliced ⓘ
- 1/4 cup unseasoned bread crumbs ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp apple cider or juice or brandy ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare all ingredients.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté sliced onions until translucent.
- Add cored and sliced apples to the skillet and cook until slightly softened.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- In a baking dish, arrange the chicken breasts and top with cooked apples and onions.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top.
- Top with unseasoned bread crumbs for a crunchy crust.
- Pour apple cider, juice, or brandy over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes until cooked through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the Swiss cheese with low-fat cheese or omit the breadcrumbs. Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage can enhance the dish, while adding a hint of nutmeg can elevate the apple flavor. This dish also works well with leftover chicken from your favorite American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a warm crusty bread. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the dish nicely, enhancing the flavors of the apples and cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Casserole With Apples And Cheese contains roughly 436 calories, with 18g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value) and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1597mg per serving (69% 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 different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor and melting properties may vary, so choose a cheese that complements the dish well.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prepping or entertaining.
What can I serve with this dish for a complete meal?
Serve this casserole with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Pairing it with a light soup, like Country Market Soup, can also make for a lovely starter before enjoying the 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).