If you're looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's easy to prepare, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole. Perfect for busy parents, home cooks, and food enthusiasts, this recipe combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and creamy cheese for a meal with everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Here's everything you'll need to make this delicious casserole:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds): Slice into bite-sized pieces.
- 2 cups of sliced mushrooms (any variety, but button or cremini work well): Adds depth and earthiness.
- 1 medium onion, diced.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced.
- 1 cup of chicken broth.
- 1 cup of heavy cream.
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy top).
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature to ensure your casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts to bubbly perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Mushrooms
Slice the Chicken:
- Cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for quicker and even cooking.
Sauté the Ingredients:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet.
- Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they're tender and have released their juices.
- Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cook the Chicken:
- Push the mushroom mixture to the side of the skillet and add your chicken pieces.
- Sauté the chicken until it's lightly browned on all sides. It doesn't need to be fully cooked at this point as it will finish cooking in the oven.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Layering for Optimal Texture and Flavor:
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the mushroom and onion mixture at the bottom.
- Layer the sautéed chicken on top.
- Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the chicken and mushrooms.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly across the top.
- If you like a crispy top, scatter breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
Step 4: Bake
Place the casserole in your preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the chicken pieces to ensure they're fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Ideal Sides:
- Serve this cheesy casserole with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Optional Variations
- Low-Carb Version: Substitute heavy cream with a low-fat alternative and skip the breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or extra mushrooms for a hearty meatless version.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole is a recipe worth sharing. Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight family dinner, it's a versatile dish that you can tweak to suit your taste or dietary needs.
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