Avocado Chicken Casserole

Avocado Chicken Casserole Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful Dish!

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Avocado Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ripe avocado, tender chicken, and a smooth, cheesy sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love a hearty meal with a touch of freshness from the avocado. It's an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort. The combination of textures and flavors makes this casserole a memorable meal that's sure to become a favorite.

History

The Avocado Chicken Casserole is a modern recipe that reflects the growing popularity of avocados in culinary uses beyond traditional guacamole or salads. Its origins are hard to pinpoint, but it's a dish that likely emerged from the fusion of Mexican-inspired ingredients like chilies and avocados with the classic comfort of a creamy chicken casserole. This dish represents the blending of cultures and the innovation of home cooks experimenting with flavors and ingredients to create something new and delicious.

Ingredients

1 cup broad flat green noodles
1 large ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
0.5 cup butter
0.25 cup flour
1 tsp salt
5 dashes tabasco sauce
2.25 cup half-and-half
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
0.5 cup roasted, peeled, and coarsely chopped fresh chilies

How to prepare

Prepare the noodles according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Drizzle the avocado slices with lime juice and set aside.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, then stir in the flour, salt, and Tabasco sauce over low heat until the mixture bubbles. Add the half-and-half slowly, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
Add the cheese and stir until it has melted.
Reserve 1 cup of this sauce.
Mix the remainder with the cooked noodles.
Place the chicken in the bottom of a rectangular baking dish, then cover with chopped green chilies.
Spoon the noodle mixture over the chicken and chilies, and place the avocado slices on top. Pour the reserved sauce over the avocados.
Bake uncovered for 35 minutes.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and noodles.
To make it lighter, substitute the half-and-half with whole milk and use a reduced-fat cheese.
Add corn or black beans to the noodle mixture for extra texture and flavor.
Use turkey breast instead of chicken for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Avocado Chicken Casserole turns out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid them turning mushy during baking.

- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the avocado slices to prevent browning and add a zesty flavor.

- Gradually add the half-and-half to the roux (butter-flour mixture) to prevent lumps.

- For a spicier casserole, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add more chopped chilies.

- Shred your own cheese for a smoother melt; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Avocado Chicken Casserole hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness of the casserole.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cheese to melt perfectly. The sauce is made using a roux-based technique, essential for achieving a smooth, thick consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Almond milk or coconut milk can replace half-and-half for a dairy-free version.

- Gluten-free flour and noodles can be used for a gluten-free casserole.

- Any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella can substitute for cheddar cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the noodle and chicken layers in advance and refrigerate. Add the avocado and pour the sauce over just before baking to ensure the avocado stays fresh and green.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the baked casserole with fresh cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of red chili flakes for color and a hint of spice. Serve in a colorful dish to contrast the creamy colors of the casserole.

Pairing Recommendations

A crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the creamy, rich flavors of the casserole. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lime or lemon water complements the dish's richness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until hot throughout, adding a little water or milk to the casserole if it seems dry.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Avocado Chicken Casserole contains approximately 500-600 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

This Avocado Chicken Casserole contains carbohydrates primarily from the broad flat noodles and the flour used in the sauce. A serving of this dish provides approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, making it a moderate source of carbs. The exact amount may vary based on the specific type of noodles and flour used.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from several sources: avocado, butter, half-and-half, and cheddar cheese. These ingredients contribute to the dish's creamy texture and rich flavor. A serving of Avocado Chicken Casserole contains about 20-30 grams of fat, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Avocado provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

Chicken breasts are the primary source of protein in this casserole, making it a high-protein meal option. Each serving offers approximately 25-35 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. The cheese also adds a small amount of additional protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocado is a nutritional powerhouse, providing vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, along with riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. The chicken contributes B vitamins, particularly niacin and vitamin B6. Together, these ingredients make the casserole a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens: dairy (butter, half-and-half, cheese) and gluten (flour, noodles). Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should modify the recipe accordingly or avoid it.

Summary

Overall, Avocado Chicken Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a hearty meal with a relatively moderate calorie count, making it suitable for those looking for a satisfying yet nutritious option.

Summary

Avocado Chicken Casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy, and fresh flavors, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. With its balanced nutrition profile and the ability to customize based on dietary needs, it's a versatile recipe that can satisfy a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Avocado Chicken Casserole. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in Mexico. My abuela, my grandmother, was the one who first introduced me to this delicious dish.

Abuela was a fantastic cook, and she had a knack for creating the most mouthwatering meals out of simple ingredients. She learned to cook from her own mother, who passed down recipes that had been in our family for generations. Avocado Chicken Casserole was one of those recipes that had been handed down through the years, and it quickly became one of my favorites.

I remember the first time Abuela made the casserole for me. The aroma of roasted chicken and creamy avocado filled the kitchen, making my mouth water. As I watched her carefully layer the ingredients in the baking dish, I couldn't wait to taste the finished product.

When the casserole was finally ready, Abuela served me a generous portion on a plate. The chicken was tender and flavorful, the avocado was rich and creamy, and the melted cheese on top added the perfect touch of gooey goodness. I savored every bite, marveling at how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious.

As I grew older, I began to help Abuela in the kitchen, learning her secrets and techniques for making the perfect Avocado Chicken Casserole. She taught me to season the chicken generously with herbs and spices, to layer the avocado slices just so, and to sprinkle the cheese on top at just the right moment.

Over the years, I made the casserole countless times for friends and family, always receiving rave reviews. It became a signature dish of mine, one that I was proud to share with others. And as I shared the recipe with those I loved, I couldn't help but think of Abuela and the legacy of delicious cooking she had passed down to me.

One day, as I was making the casserole for a dinner party, a friend asked me how I had learned to make such a unique and flavorful dish. I told her about Abuela and the tradition of family recipes that had been passed down through the generations. She was fascinated by the story and begged me to share the recipe with her.

I gladly obliged, writing down the ingredients and instructions for making Avocado Chicken Casserole on a slip of paper. As I handed it to her, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in passing on a piece of my family's culinary history to someone else.

My friend made the casserole for her own family, and they loved it just as much as I did. She told me that it had quickly become a favorite in her household, and that she would cherish the recipe for years to come. I was touched by her gratitude and happy to know that the tradition of this delicious dish would live on in her home.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the memories of learning to make Avocado Chicken Casserole with Abuela, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my family and share love and nourishment with those around me.

And as I continue to make this beloved dish for my own loved ones, I know that the spirit of my grandmother and the traditions of my family live on in every bite. The legacy of Avocado Chicken Casserole will endure for generations to come, bringing joy and deliciousness to all who taste it.