There’s just something about comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug, isn’t there? This chicken cobbler recipe has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. It’s the dish I turn to when I want to gather my loved ones around the table and share a hearty, satisfying meal. I still recall the first time I made it for my family; my brother couldn’t stop raving about the flaky biscuit topping! It was a chilly evening, and as the cobbler bubbled away in the oven, the whole house filled with that irresistible aroma. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite, just like we did that night. This dish is not just about taste; it’s about the memories we create together while enjoying it. Let’s dive into making this cozy delight!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful chicken cobbler. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that comforting, hearty flavor we all crave. Let’s break it down!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or boil chicken breasts until tender. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
- 1 cup chicken broth: This adds depth to the dish. If you have homemade broth, even better! Store-bought works just fine too.
- 1 cup mixed vegetables: I love using a mix of peas, carrots, and corn. You can chop fresh veggies or use frozen; just make sure they’re small enough to cook evenly.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: This is the magic that binds everything together. It adds creaminess and flavor without any fuss!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for that savory kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, fresh minced garlic works too!
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This brings a sweet, aromatic flavor to the dish. You could also finely chop fresh onion if you prefer.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat; feel free to adjust it to your taste.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk gives the biscuit topping a rich flavor, but you can use whatever you have on hand.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base for your biscuit topping. Make sure to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: This is what makes the biscuit topping rise and get fluffy. Fresh baking powder is key—check the expiration date!
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Use unsalted butter for better control over the saltiness. This adds richness to the batter. Make sure it’s slightly cooled before mixing!
How to Prepare the Chicken Cobbler Recipe
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is key because it ensures that your chicken cobbler bakes evenly from the get-go, giving you that lovely golden top we all crave. So, don’t skip this step—trust me, it makes a difference!
Combine the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, and cream of chicken soup. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined and the ingredients are evenly distributed. You want to achieve a nice, thick mixture that’s not too soupy, so feel free to adjust the broth or soup if needed. The goal is a comforting filling!
Prepare the Biscuit Batter
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder, whisking them together to break up any lumps. Then, slowly pour in the milk and stir until you have a smooth batter. Now, here’s the fun part—add the melted butter and mix just until everything is combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are totally fine! This batter will be your delicious biscuit topping.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the chicken mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, dollop the biscuit batter over the top. Use a spatula to gently spread it out, covering the chicken mixture as much as possible. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Ooh, that glorious smell will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
Tips for Success
Here are some tried-and-true tips to make sure your chicken cobbler turns out perfectly every single time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can really elevate your dish!
- Use leftover chicken: This is a fantastic way to save time! Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe, just shred it up and you’re good to go.
- Mix it up with veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Broccoli, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can work wonders. Just remember to chop them small so they cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the seasoning: Adjust the garlic and onion powder to your taste. If you like it a bit spicier, add some cayenne pepper or paprika for a kick!
- Check the doneness: Keep an eye on that golden topping! If it browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while the chicken mixture cooks through.
- Serve it hot: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors!
- Leftovers are a treat: If you happen to have leftovers (which is a big ‘if’ in my house), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for that freshly baked taste!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this chicken cobbler! It’s always nice to know what you’re serving up, right? Here’s a breakdown of the typical values per serving. Keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, so adjust as needed!
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
This chicken cobbler is not only comforting but also packs a punch of protein, making it a filling meal for your family. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing it’s not just satisfying but also nutritious!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! I often use frozen mixed vegetables when I’m short on time. Just toss them directly into the chicken mixture without thawing—there’s no need to complicate things! They’ll cook up beautifully in the oven, and you’ll still get that comforting, hearty flavor. Just make sure to keep an eye on the moisture level; if your frozen veggies are particularly watery, you might want to adjust the amount of chicken broth in your mixture slightly.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can totally prepare this chicken cobbler ahead of time! If you want to make it earlier in the day or even the night before, just assemble the chicken mixture and biscuit batter separately and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, just pour the chicken mixture into a greased baking dish, add the biscuit batter on top, and pop it in the oven. It might take a few extra minutes to bake since it’s starting cold, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking to swap out the cream of chicken soup, no worries! You can use homemade cream sauce made from butter, flour, and milk for a fresh twist. Just melt 2 tablespoons of butter, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour until smooth, then gradually add in 1 cup of milk while stirring until it thickens. Alternatively, a can of cream of mushroom soup works great too if you’re okay with that flavor. Just adjust the seasonings since it might bring a different taste profile to your cobbler!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Understanding your ingredients is key to making this chicken cobbler recipe shine! Here’s a deeper dive into what you’re using and some potential swaps if you’re looking to mix things up.
- Cooked Chicken: While I love using shredded rotisserie chicken for its convenience and flavor, you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. If you’re in a pinch, canned chicken works too—just drain and shred it well for the best texture!
- Chicken Broth: Homemade chicken broth is a game-changer, but if you don’t have any on hand, store-bought is perfectly fine. You can even use vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian option if you’re not a fan of chicken.
- Mixed Vegetables: I usually go for peas, carrots, and corn, but feel free to customize! Fresh vegetables like diced bell peppers or zucchini add a nice crunch. If you’re short on time, frozen mixed veggies are a great shortcut—just toss them in frozen!
- Cream of Chicken Soup: If you’d rather skip the can, consider making a quick homemade version using butter, flour, and milk (as mentioned in the FAQs). Cream of mushroom or even cream of celery soup can also work beautifully, adding a different flavor profile to your cobbler.
- Milk: Whole milk gives the biscuit topping a lovely richness, but you can use any milk you have on hand—almond milk, soy milk, or even buttermilk! Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
- All-Purpose Flour: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best results!
- Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for better control over seasoning, but you can also use margarine or a plant-based butter if you prefer a dairy-free option. Just ensure it’s melted before adding it to the batter!
These substitutions can help tailor the dish to your preferences or dietary needs while keeping that comforting essence intact. Happy cooking!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this scrumptious chicken cobbler fresh out of the oven, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! The right sides can elevate your meal from great to unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the comforting flavors of the cobbler perfectly:
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich cobbler. It’s a light and healthy way to balance out the meal!
- Garlic Bread: Who doesn’t love garlic bread? Its buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your chicken cobbler. Plus, it adds a delightful crunch to your dinner plate!
- Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds a nice pop of color and a nutritious boost. Just steam it lightly to retain that lovely crunch, and drizzle a bit of lemon juice over it for a zesty kick!
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that can be a comforting addition to your meal. You can even whip in some garlic or herbs for extra flavor. Trust me, it pairs beautifully with the cobbler!
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender roasted carrots add a lovely sweetness to the meal. Just toss them with olive oil, salt, and a sprinkle of rosemary before roasting for a delicious side!
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings a crunchy texture and a refreshing taste, which nicely contrasts with the warm, savory cobbler. It’s a great way to add some crunch!
Mix and match these sides based on what you and your loved ones enjoy. Each option will not only complement your chicken cobbler but will also create a well-rounded, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy your comforting feast!
Print
Chicken Cobbler Recipe: 7 Ways to Create Cozy Memories
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting chicken cobbler made with tender chicken and a flaky biscuit topping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, chicken broth, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Pour the chicken mixture into a baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and milk until a batter forms.
- Pour the melted butter into the batter and mix well.
- Spoon the batter over the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Notes
- Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Serve hot for best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: chicken cobbler recipe