Ingredients

2 tablespoons softened butter
1 1/2 lbs boneless chicken breasts
1/3 cup dry white wine
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried tarragon
2 whole cloves ( optional )
1 onion , chopped
1 clove garlic , minced
salt and pepper
4 cups tortiglioni ( or any other short pasta )
2 cups broccoli florets
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 lb canadian havarti cheese , shredded
3/4 cup breadcrumbs
Chicken au Gratin Casserole originated from France. It is an indulgent and satisfying dish that has become popular worldwide, mostly in western countries. This dish is known for its creamy, cheesy, and savory flavor, as well as the unique texture thanks to the crispy breadcrumb crust. The dish consists of boneless chicken, pasta, and broccoli coated with a cheesy sauce, seasoned with tarragon and garlic for that classic umami taste. The dish is a complete package of everything an individual will be looking for in a convenient meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2.Grease a large casserole dish with 1 tablespoon of softened butter.
3.In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the chicken breasts in the remaining butter until cooked through. Remove from skillet and place in casserole dish.
4.In the same skillet, pour in the white wine and chicken broth, and add the tarragon, cloves, onion, garlic, salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
5.Add the tortiglioni pasta and broccoli florets to the skillet, and stir to coat in the sauce. Cook for a further 3-4 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
6.Mix in the all-purpose flour and grated cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce has thickened.
7.Pour the pasta and cheese sauce over the chicken in the casserole dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
8.Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

PROS

Chicken au Gratin Casserole is a hearty, comforting meal packed full of delicious flavors and textures.
The dish is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.
It’s versatile and can be adapted according to individual taste preferences.

CONS

This dish is high in calories and fat due to the cheese sauce and use of pasta.
It may not be suitable for individuals following a low-carb or low-fat diet.
It contains mainly simple and complex carbohydrates and might not be rich in the necessary nutrients.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Chicken au Gratin Casserole can be a great source of protein, essential minerals and macronutrients. The pasta and chicken provide carbohydrates and protein, while the broccoli offers antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Tarragon is said to have Anti-oxidant, antimicrobial and anesthetic properties. Garlic can also help boost the immune system and have antibacterial effects. Onions provide anti-inflammatory benefits and flavonoids that are good for the body generally.

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