Creamy Muenster Chicken Casserole
Creamy Muenster Chicken Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious creamy sauce and smooth, mild Muenster cheese. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this casserole offers rich flavors and satisfying textures perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights any time of the year.
- Author: Sarah
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free breadcrumbs are used or omitted)
Protein
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cheese
- 2 cups shredded Muenster cheese
Dairy
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
Liquids
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh herbs as variation)
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko (use gluten-free crumbs for gluten-free version)
- Prepare and Season the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and season them evenly with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs such as thyme.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant, forming the aromatic base of the sauce.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in the shredded Muenster cheese until it melts completely and the sauce turns silky and smooth.
- Combine and Layer: Place the seasoned chicken breasts evenly in a casserole dish. Pour the creamy Muenster sauce over the chicken, coating each piece thoroughly to infuse flavor.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or panko over the top of the casserole to create a crispy golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Shred Muenster cheese yourself for the best melting and texture.
- Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Monitor baking time carefully to prevent drying out the chicken.
- Let casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to thicken the sauce.
- Use fresh garlic instead of powders for optimal flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Chicken casserole, creamy chicken, Muenster cheese, comfort food, baked chicken, easy dinner, family meal