Creamy Chicken and Biscuit Bake
Introduction and Origin
Creamy chicken and biscuit bake is a classic comfort food that combines tender chicken, a creamy sauce, and golden, buttery biscuits. Originating from Southern cooking traditions, this dish brings together the hearty elements of chicken pot pie and flaky biscuits in one easy-to-make casserole.
Cultural Significance
This meal represents the essence of home cooking in many households across the United States. It’s often associated with warmth, family gatherings, and a sense of nostalgia, making it a beloved dish for Sunday dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Creamy Filling:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Biscuits:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cold butter, cubed
- ¾ cup buttermilk
Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Additions
- Sautéed mushrooms for added flavor
- Fresh herbs like rosemary or sage
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
Tips for Success
- Cook chicken ahead of time: Use rotisserie chicken or cook and shred your own to save time.
- Keep biscuits flaky: Don’t overmix the biscuit dough to ensure a light, fluffy texture.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh chicken broth and cream make a noticeable difference.
- Bake evenly: Cover with foil for the first part of baking to prevent over-browning of biscuits.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Make the creamy filling:
- In a large skillet, mix the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
- Add shredded chicken and vegetables (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the biscuit dough:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in buttermilk until just combined.
- Assemble the bake:
- Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough over the creamy chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Description
This creamy chicken and biscuit bake is rich, flavorful, and loaded with comforting ingredients. The tender chicken and velvety sauce pair beautifully with the golden, buttery biscuits that soak up the creamy filling, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
This creamy chicken and biscuit bake is perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests with its comforting flavors. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for low-fat milk and use reduced-sodium soup. Add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli to increase nutritional value while still enjoying the rich flavors of this delightful dish.
Bake this dish to enjoy a warm, hearty, and unforgettable meal!