why make this recipe
Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s rich, flavorful, and combines the juiciness of chicken with the earthiness of mushrooms. The creamy sauce enhances every bite, and the crispy topping adds a delightful contrast. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and makes for great leftovers.
how to make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Mushrooms:
- 2 lbs (about 900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 1 lb (450g) cremini mushrooms, cleaned and thickly sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1 tsp black pepper, divided
- 1 tsp dried thyme
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 4 tbsp (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth, preferably low-sodium
- 1.5 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, but enhances creaminess)
For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. This helps with a good sear. Season them with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- Once it’s hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t worry about cooking it through; remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Add the cremini mushrooms, the remaining salt, and pepper. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the mushrooms brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the 4 tablespoons of butter for the sauce to the skillet. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over it. Stir constantly for 2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Once thickened, slowly pour in the cream, whisking until smooth.
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.
- Turn off the heat, and stir in the parmesan cheese, parsley, paprika, and nutmeg. Return the chicken to the skillet and mix everything well.
- If your skillet is oven-safe, you can bake in it. If not, transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle this over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra fresh parsley.
how to serve Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
Serve this casserole warm right out of the oven. It pairs well with a side of green salad or steamed vegetables.
how to store Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
tips to make Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
- Ensure the chicken is dry before searing for a better golden color.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps thicken the sauce.
- Mix in other veggies like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
variation
You can replace chicken with turkey or use a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Swap heavy cream for a lighter version using milk or a plant-based cream to make it healthier.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.
2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer.
3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and bake it when ready to serve.