Description
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1/2 cup onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon thyme
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear them in the skillet for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set aside on a plate.
Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are soft and the onions are translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Make the Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Add thyme, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
Assemble the Casserole:
Place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the creamy mushroom mixture over the chicken.
Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and melt.
Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Enjoy your Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole! It’s a cozy, creamy, and satisfying dish perfect for any family dinner.
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow these detailed steps. After preheating your oven, pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels before seasoning; this ensures a proper sear. When searing, do not move the chicken for the first 4 minutes to develop a golden crust. After removing the chicken, add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet with the mushrooms and onions for extra flavor. When making the sauce, let it simmer until it coats the back of a spoon. For assembly, lightly grease your baking dish to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This rich casserole pairs beautifully with sides that can soak up the creamy sauce. Serve it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or steamed rice. For a lighter option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing or steamed green beans like haricots verts help cut through the richness and complete the meal.
How-to Summary
In summary: Sear seasoned chicken breasts and set aside. Sauté mushrooms, onions, and garlic in the same pan. Create a sauce with cream, broth, and thyme. Place chicken in a dish, cover with the sauce and mushrooms, then top with cheeses. Bake covered for 25-30 minutes, then uncovered for 5-10 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent choice. They may require a slightly longer searing and baking time due to their higher fat content, but they remain incredibly juicy.
How can I make this casserole less rich?
Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner. You can also use a lower-fat cheese blend on top.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered oven dish at 325°F or in a skillet on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Complete all steps through assembly, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?
After simmering the cream and broth, create a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Sear chicken in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of browning.
- Underseasoning: Season the chicken well and taste the sauce before assembling, adding more salt, pepper, or thyme as needed.
- Skipping the Sear: The fond (browned bits) left in the pan is crucial for flavor. Don’t bypass searing the chicken.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: These cheeses contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Always grate your own mozzarella and Parmesan for a smoother melt.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luxuriously cheesy sauce. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a reliably delicious and impressive centerpiece for any dinner table. Its versatility in serving and make-ahead potential makes it a perfect recipe to master for both busy weeknights and special gatherings. Enjoy the cozy, satisfying results of this classic dish.