Chicken cobbler is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich sauce and a delightful biscuit topping. Think of it as a cozy meal that warms the heart and brings everyone to the table. It’s perfect for family dinners or a weekend meal with friends. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible!
Ingredients for Chicken Cobbler Recipe
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)
- 1 cup chicken broth (you can use low-sodium)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen peas, carrots, and corn are perfect)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (for a creamy base)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter, for sautéing)
Biscuit Topping Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold butter (cut into small pieces)
- 3/4 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
How to Make Chicken Cobbler Recipe
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the biscuit topping bake nicely.
- Sauté the Veggies: In a large pan over medium heat, add the olive oil. Toss in the mixed vegetables and sauté for about 5 minutes, until they are tender.
- Make the Filling: Add the chicken, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through. This will create a deliciously creamy filling.
- Transfer the Filling: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure it’s spread evenly.
- Prepare the Biscuit Topping: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly stir in the milk until just combined.
- Top the Cobbler: Spoon dollops of the biscuit mixture over the chicken filling. You want to have little mounds of biscuit dough scattered on top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let the chicken cobbler cool for a few minutes. Then, serve it warm, and watch everyone enjoy this comforting meal!
Tips for the Best Chicken Cobbler
- Use Leftover Chicken: Rotisserie chicken makes a great choice. It saves you time, and the flavor is fantastic.
- Add Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary can bring extra depth to the filling.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a kick.
How to Store Chicken Cobbler
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, cool the cobbler completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the chicken cobbler before baking it. Assemble it in your baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How to Serve Chicken Cobbler
Chicken cobbler is fabulous on its own, but you can get creative with your sides:
- Simple Salad: A light green salad balances the heartiness of the cobbler.
- Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread complements the dish perfectly.
- Steamed Veggies: Fresh steamed vegetables can add some color and nutrition to your meal.
Variations of Chicken Cobbler
1. Southwestern Chicken Cobbler
- Ingredients: Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Top with a cornbread mix instead of biscuits for a twist.
2. Creamy Mushroom Chicken Cobbler
- Ingredients: Sauté mushrooms with onions before adding them to the filling. Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
3. Chicken and Biscuit Casserole
- Ingredients: Instead of a biscuit topping, use store-bought puff pastry. It gives a flaky texture and unique flavors.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Cobbler
Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, while the vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals. The biscuit topping provides carbohydrates for energy. Overall, it’s a well-rounded meal, especially when served with fresh sides.
The Chicken Cobbler Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s cozy, nostalgic, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or mix it up with your variations, it’s bound to become a favorite at your table. So, grab those ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy this wonderful dish with your loved ones!