If you want something warm, hearty, and full of flavor, then the Mary Berry Chicken Casserole is just what you need. This dish is perfect for family dinners, cold evenings, or whenever you feel like enjoying a comforting homemade meal.
Let’s learn how to make this delicious one-pot chicken casserole using Mary Berry’s simple and trusted method.
What Is Chicken Casserole?
A chicken casserole is a cozy, slow-cooked dish made with chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce. Everything is cooked together in one pot, so the flavors mix beautifully. It’s soft, saucy, and great with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Mary Berry’s version is especially tasty and simple to follow!
Mary Berry Chicken Casserole Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 people
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 skinless chicken thighs (bone-in for more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 3 carrots (sliced)
- 1 celery stick (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon tomato purée
- 150ml white wine (or chicken stock)
- 500ml chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a few fresh sprigs)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish – optional)
👨🍳 How to Make Mary Berry’s Chicken Casserole (Step-by-Step)
1. Coat the Chicken
Dust the chicken thighs lightly with flour, plus a little salt and pepper.
2. Brown the Chicken
In a large pan or casserole dish, heat the oil. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Then remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Cook the Veggies
In the same pan, add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Add Tomato Purée and Wine
Stir in the tomato purée. Pour in the white wine and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add Stock & Chicken
Add the chicken back to the pan. Pour in the chicken stock and sprinkle the thyme on top. Stir everything gently.
6. Simmer Slowly
Cover with a lid and simmer for 1 hour on low heat, or bake in the oven at 160°C (325°F) for the same time, until the chicken is tender.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with parsley if you like. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or bread.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes
- Pair with steamed rice or egg noodles
- Enjoy with warm, crusty bread
- Add green beans or peas for extra veggies
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbs | 12g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Tips for the Best Chicken Casserole
- Use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t skip the browning step—it adds lots of taste!
- Low and slow cooking makes the chicken super soft.
- Want it thicker? Simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts?
Yes, but thighs stay juicier during long cooking. If using breasts, reduce cook time slightly.
Q: Can I freeze chicken casserole?
Absolutely. Let it cool, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Q: What if I don’t want to use wine?
You can replace wine with extra chicken stock—it will still taste great.
Q: Can I add potatoes or mushrooms?
Yes! Add chopped potatoes or mushrooms with the vegetables for more heartiness.
Final Thoughts
The Mary Berry Chicken Casserole Recipe is the perfect comfort food. It’s warm, tasty, and full of goodness. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Make it once—and it might just become a family favorite!
📣 Have You Tried It?
Let us know how your chicken casserole turned out! Share your photos or tips in the comments. Happy cooking!