Here's a make ahead casserole that gets topped with a crunchy, cheesy topping that is akin to dumplings, but it has more texture. By using prepared alfredo sauce, frozen vegetables and precooked chicken, it's so easy to toss together. I've used an italian blend instead of the provolone with yummy results.
Creamy Chicken and Vegetable Casserole
Casserole:
1 onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove minced garlic
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/8 teaspoon pepper
5 oz can evaporated milk
1 (16 ounce) jar four cheese alfredo sauce
3 cups chopped cooked chicken
1 (16 ounce) package frozen broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower
1-1/4 cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Topping:
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 egg
Directions:
In heavy saucepan, cook onion in olive oil over medium heat until tender. Add garlic and flour; cook and stir 3 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning, pepper and evaporated milk; cook and stir until thickened.
Remove from heat and add alfredo sauce, chicken, 1-1/4 cups provolone or mozzarella cheese, 1/3 cup parmesan cheese and the frozen vegetables; stir gently. Place into a 2-1/2 quart casserole dish. Cover and refrigerate 8-24 hours.
When ready to eat, set oven to 375°F. Place casserole, covered, in cold oven and allow it to warm up as the oven heats. Bake for 20-25 minutes until warm. Meanwhile, in small bowl combine flour, 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning, baking powder, 1/4 cup butter, 1/2 cup provolone or mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese and egg. Mix with a fork until crumbly.
Uncover casserole and sprinkle the topping evenly over the top. Bake for 20-30 minutes longer, until filling bubbles and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
Yield: 8 servings
Good News: you can also bake the casserole right away. After you place the chicken mixture in the casserole dish, top it with the crumbly mixture and bake in preheated 375 degrees F oven for 25-35 minutes until bubbly and brown.