If you are searching for a comforting and hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight, the Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful casserole combines tender chicken, naturally sweet potatoes, vibrant peas, and creamy cheese, all baked together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and full of cozy autumn flavors. It’s a wonderful family favorite that brings wholesome ingredients together in an easy yet impressive way, perfect for sharing with those you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item adds a unique touch, whether it’s the sweetness of potatoes, the richness of cheddar, or the subtle earthiness from thyme, making every bite a perfect balance of comforting textures and flavors.
- 4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced: Provides tender, lean protein that carries the heart of the casserole.
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed: Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color while keeping things hearty and nutritious.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: Offers a pop of green flavor and a touch of freshness to complement the richness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts ooey-gooey on top, creating a golden crust packed with flavor.
- 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup: Brings creamy, savory depth and helps bind all the ingredients together.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that subtly lifts the casserole.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing, enhances the sweetness of the potatoes while adding a nice richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Sprinkles in an aromatic, herbaceous note that warms every bite.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning, these basics elevate all the other flavors.
How to Make Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven
Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s just right when it’s time to bake your casserole, allowing for a beautifully cooked dish with a perfectly melted cheese topping.
Step 2: Sauté the sweet potatoes
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the cubed sweet potatoes. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly caramelized. This process brings out their natural sweetness and soft texture, which is key to the casserole’s comforting feel.
Step 3: Mix the creamy base
While the sweet potatoes are cooking, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This creamy mixture is what makes the casserole rich, flavorful, and perfectly cohesive.
Step 4: Combine all ingredients
Add the diced chicken, frozen peas, and the sautéed sweet potatoes to the creamy mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until every bite will be coated with the luscious blend of flavors and textures.
Step 5: Prepare for baking
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. This final layer invites a delicious, bubbly, golden crust that’s irresistible.
Step 6: Bake the casserole
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbling with a lightly golden finish. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure comfort and happiness in the making.
Step 7: Serve and savor
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish is best enjoyed hot, when all the flavors are at their peak. Dive in and relish every cozy bite of your Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Consider garnishing your casserole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a light dusting of smoked paprika to add a splash of color and a subtle hint of extra flavor. These simple additions brighten the presentation and complement the savory richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands well on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted autumn vegetables will add freshness and balance. A slice of crusty bread or warm dinner rolls are wonderful for soaking up any creamy sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of the Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe in oven-safe ramekins. This personal touch makes the meal feel extra special, perfect for dinner parties or cozy family dinners where everyone gets their own perfectly baked dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your casserole will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. To freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Label it with the date, and you can keep it frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven. For the oven, cover the casserole with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Removing the foil in the last few minutes helps refresh that cheesy topping to a melty, mouthwatering finish.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Using cooked leftover chicken makes this recipe even simpler and helps reduce food waste, while still keeping the casserole flavorful and satisfying.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer to avoid canned soup, you can make a simple homemade mushroom or cream sauce, or even use a béchamel with a touch of sautéed mushrooms for a fresh, wholesome alternative.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
You can swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, cauliflower, or chickpeas to keep it filling and delicious while enjoying a meat-free version.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe is mild and comforting, designed to highlight warming herbs like thyme rather than heat, making it family-friendly and broadly appealing.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dish will be cold going into the oven.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe that warms not only your belly but your soul. Its blend of simple, wholesome ingredients combined with ease of preparation makes it a recipe worth returning to time and again. Next time you crave comfort food that feels like a celebration of the harvest season, this casserole will be your perfect go-to. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll quickly become one of your most cherished recipes too.
Print
Amish Harvest Chicken and Sweet Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Amish Harvest Casserole is a comforting and hearty baked dish combining tender chicken, sweet sautéed sweet potatoes, peas, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this casserole offers a delightful blend of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients in an easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Sauté Sweet Potatoes: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and sauté for 10–12 minutes until they are tender and slightly golden.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy sauce base.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked, diced chicken, frozen peas, and the sautéed sweet potatoes to the sauce mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Amish Harvest Casserole!
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup for a slightly different flavor.
- For added texture, consider adding chopped onions or garlic when sautéing the sweet potatoes.
- Leftover casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
- Ensure chicken breasts are fully cooked before dicing to maintain food safety.
