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Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole

Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole
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Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender chicken pieces with a creamy sauce enriched by earthy wild mushrooms. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture with a golden, crispy topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1.5 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, trimmed and cut into pieces

Mushrooms and Aromatics

  • 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, chanterelle), cleaned and sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup grated cheese (Gruyere or Parmesan), optional
  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs

Others

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Mushrooms: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and sauté the chicken until golden on both sides but not cooked through. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add diced onions and garlic, cooking until translucent. Add the wild mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and start to brown.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream or sour cream and add fresh thyme leaves. Stir gently to combine with the mushroom mixture. Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly while stirring constantly to avoid burning. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Return the chicken pieces briefly to the pan, ensuring they are well coated with the mushroom cream sauce. Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading evenly. If using, sprinkle grated cheese over the top, then cover with breadcrumbs.
  4. Bake Until Golden: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the topping is golden and crispy, and the filling is bubbly. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Sear for flavor: Browning the chicken and mushrooms enhances the depth of flavor.
  • Use fresh mushrooms: Wild mushrooms provide a richer earthy taste than canned.
  • Let it rest: Allow the casserole to rest after baking to thicken the sauce and meld flavors.
  • Customize breadcrumbs: Mix in herbs or Parmesan for a more flavorful crust.
  • Balance creaminess: Combine broth and cream to keep the dish rich but not heavy.
  • Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a day before and bake when ready.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition

Keywords: wild mushroom chicken casserole, creamy chicken casserole, mushroom casserole, comfort food, easy chicken dinner, casserole recipe, gluten-free casserole

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