Regarding comfort food, few dishes rival the satisfaction of a hearty casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings warmth to your table, and today, we’re diving into a unique version—olive chicken casserole recipes. Whether hosting a family gathering or simply looking for an easy, make-ahead meal, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Packed with tender chicken, tangy olives, and a creamy sauce, it’s the perfect meal for spicing up their weekly casserole rotation.

Olive Chicken Casserole Recipe

Description:

A savory casserole featuring tender chicken, briny olives, and a creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 6

Calories: 450 per serving

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup pitted green olives, halved
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to warm up. Brush a thin layer of olive oil onto a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sear the chicken: Warm some olive oil in a large skillet on medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, then sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Set aside: Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pan and place it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme, and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared casserole dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, then scatter the olives over the top. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the dish.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before dishing it up. Garnish with extra thyme if desired.

Notes:

You can use bone-in chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
For a lower-calorie version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative.
Try swapping green olives for Kalamata for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g

Why You’ll Love This Olive Chicken Casserole Recipe

Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal without the fuss.
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of olives, garlic, and thyme creates a complex, savory flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
Family-Friendly: This is one of those dishes everyone will love, from kids to adults, and it’s also great for feeding a crowd.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prepping.
Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before dishing it up.
Customizable: Easily adapt it to fit various dietary needs or preferences.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions for Olive Chicken Casserole Recipes

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, but you can also use chicken thighs for a richer, juicier result.
Olives: Green olives bring a salty, briny flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce. For a twist, try using Kalamata olives, which have a deeper, fruitier taste.
Heavy Cream: This creates a luscious sauce, but for a lighter version, you can substitute it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut milk or almond cream.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a subtle earthy flavor. If you don’t have fresh thyme, dried thyme works just as well, though you’ll want to use about half the amount.
Breadcrumbs and Cheese: These give the casserole a deliciously crunchy and cheesy topping. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, like Parmesan or Gruyère, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

How to Make Olive Chicken Casserole (Step-by-Step)

Sear the Chicken: This initial step locks in the juices and ensures the chicken stays tender during baking. Don’t worry about cooking it all the way through at this stage—it will finish cooking in the oven.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Building layers of flavor is key to a great casserole. Softening the onions and garlic before adding the liquid ensures a deep, rich flavor.
Simmer the Sauce: The sauce is the heart of the dish. A quick simmer melds the flavors together, making every bite irresistible.
Assemble and Bake: Once everything is in the casserole dish, it’s all about baking. The cheese and breadcrumbs on top create a perfect crust that contrasts with the creamy chicken underneath.

Expert Tips for Perfect Olive Chicken Casserole Recipes

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Since the chicken will continue to cook in the oven, sear it just until browned. Overcooking it in the skillet can result in dry chicken.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme makes a big difference in flavor. If you only have dried thyme, use about half the amount called for in the recipe.
Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes after removing it from the oven.
Thickening the sauce: This step slightly thickens the sauce, making it easier to portion and serve.

Variations and Customizations for Olive Chicken Casserole Recipes

Low-Carb Version: Skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly topping.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or cashew cream in place of the heavy cream, and omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Spicy variation: For a kick of heat, sprinkle a dash of red pepper flakes into the sauce. You can also add chopped jalapeños or pepperoncini for extra spice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions for Olive Chicken Casserole Recipes

Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the topping may lose some crispiness.

Serving Suggestions for Olive Chicken Casserole Recipes

This olive chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider these ideas to complete your meal:

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve the casserole over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce.
Crisp Salad: A light, fresh salad with a citrus vinaigrette can cut through the dish’s richness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How to make olive chicken casserole recipes?

A: To make an olive chicken casserole, sear the chicken breasts and sauté onions and garlic. Simmer chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme to create a sauce. Assemble everything in a casserole dish with olives, cheese, and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and bubbly.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?

A: Yes! You can put together the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to cook, bring it to room temperature before baking, or add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.

Q: Can I freeze the olive chicken casserole?

A: Absolutely! Once the casserole is assembled, cover it securely with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. It will be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.

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Conclusion

This olive chicken casserole recipe is more than just a comforting dish—it’s a blend of bold, savory flavors that come together most satisfyingly. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner, meal prep for a busy week, or even a special gathering, this recipe offers both convenience and taste. The combination of tender chicken, tangy olives, and a creamy sauce creates a truly memorable meal that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a great option for both seasoned home cooks and beginners alike. Plus, the versatility of this dish allows you to experiment with different variations to suit your tastes or dietary preferences, making it adaptable to any household.

Give this olive chicken casserole a try, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Its balance of simplicity and flavor is what makes it stand out among other casserole recipes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or even guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your thoughts, feedback, and any creative twists you might have added to make the dish your own. There’s always room to personalize and elevate this casserole, making it truly yours. So, grab your ingredients and enjoy the process of making this hearty, delicious casserole that promises to deliver comfort and flavor in every bite!

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