Description
This comforting Cornbread Casserole combines tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce topped with a golden cornbread crust. Perfect for a family dinner, it offers a hearty and satisfying meal baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes OR 2 cups cooked chicken in bite-size pieces
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil (for cooking chicken)
Vegetable Base and Sauce
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1 bag frozen mixed vegetables (about 12-16 oz)
- 1/3 cup flour
- 1 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
Cornbread Topping
- 1 box cornbread mix (1 large or 2 small), prepared according to directions on the box
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until fully cooked through, about 10 minutes. Drain any excess liquid and set the chicken aside.
- Prepare the Vegetable Base: In the same large pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 2 minutes until translucent. Add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook until they are warmed through.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form, then stir in the milk. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce. Stir in the cooked chicken to combine evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Prepare the cornbread mix following the package directions, then evenly spread the prepared batter over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake for 22-26 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set and cool slightly.
Notes
- You can use pre-cooked shredded chicken to save time.
- Frozen mixed vegetables typically contain peas, carrots, corn, and green beans, but you can substitute with your favorite veggies.
- Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed after baking.
- Ensure the cornbread topping is spread evenly for uniform baking.
- Allow the casserole to rest after baking to prevent burns and help it firm up.
