Harvest Chicken Casserole

Happy Fall, Y'all! Down here in FL that means absolutely nothing, but this Northern gal still craves that cooler air and comfort food that begins this time of year. Here is something I can make to get me in the Autumnal mood...even when temps are still hot.

Harvest Chicken Casserole

INGREDIENTS:

2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for baking dish

2 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1/2 onion, chopped

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into small cubes

1 lb. brussels sprouts, trimmed and quartered

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves

1 tsp. paprika

1/2 tsp. ground cumin

1/2 c. low-sodium chicken broth, divided

6 c. cooked wild rice

1/2 c. dried cranberries

1/2 c. sliced almonds

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350° and grease a 9"-x-13" baking dish with oil. In a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Add chicken to skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, 8 minutes per side. Let rest 10 minutes, then cut into 1" pieces.

Heat another tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add onion, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, garlic, thyme, paprika, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper and cook until softened, 5 minutes. Add 1/4 cup broth, bring to a simmer, and cook, covered, 5 minutes.

Place cooked rice in a large baking dish and season with salt and pepper. Stir in chicken, cranberries, cooked vegetables, and remaining 1/4 cup broth. Top with almonds and bake until dish is hot and almonds are toasted, 15 to 18 minutes.

Bon Appetit! If you try this, comment below and let me know what you thought.