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Fall Chicken Casserole

This fall chicken casserole features tender cooked chicken combined with caramelized onions, sliced roasted apples, and a creamy herbal sauce, all baked until bubbly and golden. The dish has a rustic, hearty appearance with crispy edges and a soft, saucy interior that showcases seasonal flavors. It combines simple ingredients with minimal effort, resulting in a comforting, homestyle meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, as preferred
  • 2 large apples preferably Cortland or Gala, sliced
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream for the sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Skillet or frying pan

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until they soften and turn golden, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the onions and garlic to your baking dish.
  3. Add sliced apples to the skillet and cook until they start to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Spread the apples evenly over the onions in the baking dish.
  4. Place the seared chicken breasts on top of the apple and onion mixture. Pour heavy cream over the chicken, then sprinkle with chopped thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
  5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole, which will create a crispy crust as it bakes. Cover with foil if desired to prevent burning.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the top is golden and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
  7. Serve hot, scooping generous portions of the creamy sauce, caramelized apples, and tender chicken, with the crispy breadcrumb topping on top. Enjoy the warm, fall-inspired flavors!