Spelt Chicken & Leek Casserole

Simple, Comforting, and Properly Satisfying

Why this dish works:
This Spelt Chicken and Leek Casserole is a warming, one-pot meal that’s both hearty and healthy. It combines juicy chicken thighs, sweet leeks, and nutty spelt for a dinner that’s full of flavour and texture.

Great for weeknights or batch cooking:
You can prep it in minutes, then let it bubble away until everything’s soft and packed with savoury depth. It reheats well and works for lunch the next day too. No faff, just proper good food.

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 50 mins

Rest Time 5 mins

Total Time 1 hr 10 mins

Cuisine: British

Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner

Servings: 4

Estimated Cost: 8.50

Calories: 495

Best Season: Winter

Dietary: Contains gluten, Dairy Optional

Description

A creamy, one-pot casserole with tender chicken, soft leeks, and hearty spelt. Packed with savoury flavour and perfect for colder days.

Ingredients

1 tbsp Olive Oil
6 Bone-in, Chicken Thighs (Skin removed)
2 Large Leeks (Sliced)
2 Garlic Cloves (Finely Chopped)
1 tsp Fresh Thyme Leaves, (Or ½ tsp dried thyme)
150 g Whole Spelt Grains (Rinsed)
500 ml Chicken Stock
100 ml Single Cream (Optional)
1 tbsp Wholegrain Mustard
Salt and Black Pepper (To taste)

Instructions

Sear the chicken:

1
Heat oil in a large casserole dish. Brown chicken thighs on both sides for about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Soften the veg:

2
In the same pan, add leeks and garlic. Cook for 5–6 minutes until soft but not browned.

Add herbs and spelt:

3
Stir in thyme and spelt. Let cook for 2 minutes to toast the grains slightly.

Pour in stock:

4
Return chicken to the pan. Pour over the stock. Bring to a simmer.

Cook covered:

5
Cover and simmer gently for 40 minutes until chicken is cooked and spelt is tender.

Finish with cream and mustard:

6
Stir in cream and mustard. Cook uncovered for 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly.

Season and serve:

7
Taste and adjust seasoning. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 495kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22g34%
Saturated Fat 6g30%
Cholesterol 95mg32%
Sodium 340mg15%
Potassium 610mg18%
Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 4g
Protein 41g82%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

Use boneless thighs if you prefer quicker cooking.
The cream is optional – omit for a dairy-free version or replace with plant cream.

Substitutions & Storage

Grain Swap: Use pearl barley or brown rice instead of spelt – adjust cooking time.
Cream Alternative: Use coconut cream or oat cream for dairy-free.
Leftovers: Store in fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave.
Freezing: Freeze in portions. Thaw overnight and reheat until piping hot.

Keywords: easy dinner, chicken casserole, one-pot meal, spelt recipe, chicken and leek

Tips & Variations

Make it Your Way

Add Greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra veg.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chilli flakes or smoked paprika with the garlic.
Slow cooker version: Sear chicken first, then add all ingredients to slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.

Conclusion

This Spelt Chicken and Leek Casserole is simple to prep and full of comfort. It’s great for weeknights or when you want something that just works. Give it a go and see how easy wholegrains can fit into everyday meals.

Let us know in the comments how you make it your own!

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-chicken-leek-casserole/

Valentina

A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!