🥘 Creamy Chicken Casserole with Mushrooms
Introduction
This creamy chicken casserole is hearty, comforting, and perfect for family dinners. Tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce come together to create a dish that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
For the chicken and mushrooms:
2½ lbs chicken breasts (4–5 large), cut into 1-inch strips
1½ tsp sea salt, plus more to taste
¼ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating the chicken)
6 Tbsp olive oil, divided
1 lb white mushrooms, thickly sliced
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
For the sauce:
3 Tbsp unsalted butter
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1½ cups chicken broth
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1cup half and half (or ½ cup milk + ½ cup heavy cream)
Instructions
Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper, then dredge them lightly in flour. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and brown the chicken in batches until golden.
setting it aside once cooked. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and sauté until they release their juices and become tender. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
For the sauce, melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook until lightly golden. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth, then stir in lemon juice and half and half.
Combine the chicken, mushrooms, and sauce in a casserole dish and bake until bubbly and heated through.
How to Make
The secret to this casserole is layering flavors. Browning the chicken first locks in juices while adding a golden crust. Sautéing mushrooms, onions, and garlic deepens the flavor base.
The creamy sauce, made with butter, flour, broth, and cream, ties everything together. Once baked, the casserole becomes rich, savory, and perfectly comforting.
Variations
Swap chicken breasts for chicken thighs for more tenderness. Add vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition. For a cheesy twist, stir shredded mozzarella or Parmesan into the sauce. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking adds a golden, crunchy finish. You can also replace half and half with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Tips
Cut chicken evenly for consistent cooking. Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning to ensure a nice sear. Whisk the sauce constantly while adding broth to prevent lumps. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking so the sauce thickens slightly before serving. Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken casserole with mushrooms is a warm, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare yet rich in flavor. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, it’s a satisfying classic that everyone will enjoy.