We call this ‘Amish Grandma’s Cozy Hug’ because everyone always comes back for seconds!

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a large pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let the chicken cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the broth and set it aside to cool for a few minutes.

While the chicken is cooling, strain the chicken broth to remove any leftover bits and set it aside for later use.

2. Prepare the Veggies and Base

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Next, add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften. Pour in the reserved chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture is heated through and starts to thicken slightly.

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

3. Shred the Chicken

While the veggie mixture is simmering, use two forks to shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also chop it into chunks if you prefer a heartier texture. Add the shredded chicken back into the pot and stir to combine with the creamy vegetable mixture.

4. Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Once the chicken and vegetable mixture is well combined and creamy, transfer it to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to cover the bottom of the dish.

Now, spoon the mashed potatoes over the chicken and vegetable mixture, spreading them into an even layer. You can use homemade mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort, or store-bought mashed potatoes for a quicker option.

If you’re using shredded cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the mashed potatoes for a golden, cheesy crust once baked.

5. Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you added cheese, it should be melted and slightly browned.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a touch of color and freshness.

Serve warm and enjoy a cozy, comforting meal that’s sure to leave everyone asking for more!

Why This Recipe is Called ‘Amish Grandma’s Cozy Hug’

• Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: Much like traditional Amish recipes, this dish is built around simple, wholesome ingredients that are easily accessible. There’s no need for fancy, exotic spices or complicated techniques—just good, honest food.
• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and the comforting layer of mashed potatoes makes this dish feel like a warm hug from the inside. It’s the kind of food that nourishes not just the body but the soul.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to feed a group. It’s easy to scale up or down depending on how many people you’re serving, and it’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Unbeatable Flavor: The blend of flavors—savory chicken, creamy vegetables, and a cheesy potato topping—hits all the right notes. It’s a balanced dish that’s rich but not heavy, and it’s full of comforting flavors that everyone loves.
• Crowd-Pleasing: It’s called a “cozy hug” for a reason—this dish always gets rave reviews! Everyone loves a hearty, comforting casserole, and this one delivers every time. It’s also one of those recipes that’s easy to make ahead and reheat, so it’s perfect for busy days.

Why You’ll Love Amish Grandma’s Cozy Hug

1. Time-Saving: While it may sound like an involved dish, the preparation is actually quite simple, and once the ingredients are cooked and assembled, it’s mostly hands-off while the dish bakes in the oven.
2. Freezer-Friendly: This dish can be made in advance and frozen for later use. To freeze, simply assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just bake it straight from the freezer (it might take a bit longer in the oven).
3. Customizable: While the recipe is perfect as-is, feel free to make it your own. You can add other vegetables, like green beans, corn, or mushrooms, to suit your tastes. You can also make the dish lighter by using low-fat cream or cauliflower mashed potatoes for a healthier twist.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish makes great leftovers, and it’s easy to portion out for meal prep. Simply store the extra servings in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. You’ll have a ready-made meal that’s just as comforting the next day!

Conclusion: A Hug in Every Bite

‘Amish Grandma’s Cozy Hug’ is the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It’s one of those dishes that will have your family or guests coming back for seconds and thirds, asking for the recipe. The combination of tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food that feels just like home.

Perfect for feeding a crowd, this dish is hearty, filling, and full of the love that only a comforting homemade meal can provide. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself and your family, ‘Amish Grandma’s Cozy Hug’ will always be there to warm you up on even the coldest of days.

So, the next time you’re craving something comforting and delicious, give this recipe a try—and get ready to feel the love in every bite!