Frequently Asked Questions
What is Comforting Chicken Pot Pie Casserole?
It is a delightful twist on the classic chicken pot pie that features tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce in a hearty potato base, topped with golden biscuits.
How long should I bake the chicken breasts?
The chicken breasts should be baked for 25 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until they are cooked through.
Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup.
What temperature should the oven be for the final bake?
The oven should be preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for the final casserole baking stage.
How do I prepare the potatoes for this casserole?
Peel and chop 5 medium potatoes into bite-sized pieces, rinse them, and then boil them in the liquid mixture and water for about 15 minutes.
Can I use frozen vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can use either a 16-ounce package of frozen mixed vegetables or fresh ones, based on your preference.
Why do I put the chicken in the freezer after baking?
The chicken is placed in the freezer temporarily to cool it down quickly so it can be handled and diced easily.
What type of gravy mix is needed?
The recipe calls for one 7/8-ounce packet of instant chicken gravy mix.
How do I make the sauce for the casserole?
Whisk together the reserved chicken cooking liquid, instant chicken gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth.
Should I bake the biscuits on top of the casserole?
No, the canned biscuits should be baked separately according to the package directions to ensure they achieve a flaky texture.
Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Yes, baking and cooling the chicken can be done the night before to save time on the day of serving.
What kind of garlic salt is recommended?
The recipe suggests using California-style garlic salt, which typically includes garlic and parsley.
Can I use French fries instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, the recipe notes that you can use thawed French fries as a substitute for the medium potatoes.
How long does the completed casserole bake in the oven?
The casserole should bake for approximately 35 minutes or until it is bubbly and golden.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a small amount of heat from 1/4 teaspoon of ground red pepper, but it is generally considered a mild, comforting dish.
What is the role of all-purpose flour in this recipe?
The all-purpose flour is used as a thickening agent for the liquid sauce mixture.
Do I need to peel the onion?
Yes, the medium onion should be peeled and chopped before being added to the mix.
How much chicken is required?
You will need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use either salted butter or margarine for the chicken coating mixture.
How long should the casserole cool before eating?
It is recommended to allow the casserole and biscuits to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
What size should I cut the chicken into?
The chicken should be cut into small, bite-sized pieces according to your preference.
What seasonings are used for the chicken?
The chicken is seasoned with black pepper, garlic salt, ground red pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Is this a good recipe for a weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is specifically designed for busy families looking for a straightforward and satisfying meal.
How much chicken broth is used?
One 14.5-ounce can of chicken broth is used in the initial chicken cooking step.
What texture should the potatoes have after boiling?
The potatoes should be cooked until they are tender yet still slightly crisp.
How much water is added to the sauce mixture?
4 ounces of water are added to the liquid mixture for cooking.
What kind of biscuits should I buy?
One 12-ounce can of flakey biscuits is recommended for this recipe.
Do I drain the liquid after boiling the potatoes?
Yes, you should drain any excess liquid after the potatoes have finished boiling if necessary.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 15 ingredients used in this chicken pot pie casserole.
Can I use dried Italian seasoning?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning.