Hearty Cheesy Chicken and Vegetable Family Casserole

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until lightly browned but not fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Stir in broccoli florets, diced red bell pepper, sliced carrots, and frozen corn. Cook for another 3-4 minutes just to slightly soften the vegetables.
5. Sprinkle flour over the chicken and vegetable mixture and stir well to coat evenly. Gradually pour in chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Add milk and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Continue stirring and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Chef tips

• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or almond milk for whole milk and use reduced-fat cheese.
• If you don’t have all-purpose flour, cornstarch is a good thickening substitute; mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water before adding.
• Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, or zucchini depending on availability or preference.
• Make ahead tip: Prepare the casserole mixture a day before, refrigerate, then add cheese and bake when ready for an easy dinner.