Simple ingredients, minimal preparation and plenty of flavour make this budget-friendly chicken casserole a winner for busy families. Tender chicken, vegetables and a rich savoury sauce are baked together to create a comforting meal that's affordable, filling and perfect for colder evenings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Serves: 6
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 3 potatoes, cubed
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 500ml chicken stock
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for serving
Method
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Lightly grease a large casserole dish.
Step 2
Heat the oil in a frying pan.
Brown the chicken pieces for 2 to 3 minutes per side.
Transfer to the casserole dish.
Step 3
Add the onion, carrots, potatoes and celery around the chicken.
Sprinkle over the garlic.
Step 4
In a jug, combine the chicken stock, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce and mixed herbs.
Pour over the chicken and vegetables.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 5
Cover with a lid or foil.
Bake for 50 minutes.
Step 6
Remove the lid and bake for a further 20 minutes until the chicken is golden and the vegetables are tender.
Step 7
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Variations
- Add frozen peas during the final 10 minutes of cooking.
- Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes.
- Add mushrooms for extra flavour.
- Stir in a splash of cream before serving for a richer sauce.
Tips
- Chicken drumsticks are often the most economical option.
- Cut vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Leftovers make an excellent next-day lunch.
- Serve with rice if you need to stretch the meal further.
Conclusion
This budget-friendly chicken casserole proves that affordable meals can still be hearty and delicious. With tender chicken, wholesome vegetables and a rich homemade sauce, it's the perfect family dinner when you want comfort food without spending a fortune.
