If you have been searching for a comforting, rich, and utterly satisfying dish to add to your home-cooked meal rotation, look no further. This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Casserole Recipe brings together tender chicken strips, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious, velvety sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s the perfect meal to warm your soul on any day, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering. Each bite offers a wonderful balance of creamy richness and savory goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Chicken Mushroom Casserole Recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role. From the juicy chicken breasts that provide hearty protein to the mushrooms and onions that add earthy depth, every component works together to create a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures.
- 2 1/2 lbs chicken breasts: Choose large, fresh chicken breasts for tender strips that cook evenly and soak in the sauce.
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and balances the creaminess of the sauce.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Used for coating the chicken, giving it a light crust that locks in juices.
- 6 Tbsp olive oil: Divided use for sautéing, adds richness and beautiful browning.
- 1 lb white mushrooms: Thickly sliced to ensure a meaty texture and deep, earthy flavor.
- 1 medium onion: Finely diced to bring sweetness and body to the mushroom mixture.
- 3 garlic cloves: Minced to add an irresistible aroma and depth.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter: Melts into the sauce, making it incredibly smooth and rich.
- 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour: For the roux, to thicken the creamy sauce perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth: Provides a savory base that keeps the sauce flavorful but light.
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice: Adds a subtle brightness that lifts and balances the creaminess.
- 1 cup half and half: Or a mix of milk and heavy cream, creating that luscious velvety sauce everyone loves.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Mushroom Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Season and Flour the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken strips generously with sea salt and black pepper. Then, coat them thoroughly in flour, which will help create a light crust when sautéed, locking in moisture and flavor for juicy, tender bites.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat half of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sauté the floured chicken strips until they develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust on each side but remain slightly undercooked in the center. Transfer them immediately to a 13-by-9-inch casserole dish to rest.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms, Onions, and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and toss in the thickly sliced mushrooms and finely diced onion. Cook until everything softens and turns a rich golden-brown color, infusing the pan with warmth and sweetness. Toss in the minced garlic last, cooking just long enough to release its fragrant aroma without burning. Spread this savory mixture evenly over the chicken in your casserole dish.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Melt the butter over medium heat in a clean saucepan or the same skillet. Whisk in the flour and cook until it’s lightly golden, creating a roux that’s the foundation of your sauce. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and lemon juice until smooth, then stir in the half and half. Bring it gently to a simmer, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and cook just until the sauce thickens slightly, creating that unmistakable rich, velvety texture.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and mushroom mixture in the casserole dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture locked in and bake at 350˚F (175˚C) for 45 minutes. The result is tender chicken bathed in a decadent sauce that’s perfect for spooning over your favorite sides.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, the casserole is ready to warm your table and your heart. Serve it hot over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice to enjoy every bit of that incredible sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Mushroom Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the creamy sauce perfectly. For a little crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top work beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes that soak up the sauce, or al dente pasta for a comforting carb boost. Steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad add brightness and balance, rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, try serving this casserole in individual ramekins or styled over a bed of creamy polenta. Add a lemon wedge on the side for guests to add a fresh squeeze if they like a zesty lift to the richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, this casserole freezes well. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325ËšF (160ËšC) to maintain the texture or warm individual portions in the microwave. Adding a splash of milk or broth before reheating can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency if it has thickened.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms?
Absolutely! While white mushrooms are classic here, cremini or baby bella mushrooms add a richer flavor. Just slice them thickly for the best texture.
What can I substitute for half and half?
If you don’t have half and half on hand, mix equal parts milk and heavy cream to mimic the richness perfectly.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or use cornstarch for coating the chicken and thickening the sauce. Just adjust the amounts slightly to get the right consistency.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble everything ahead of time and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it super convenient for busy days.
What sides complement this casserole best?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered noodles are excellent for soaking up the luscious sauce. For a lighter option, serve with sautéed greens or a crisp salad.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a special occasion every time you make it, yet it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners. Its rich, comforting flavors and tender textures make it a real crowd-pleaser. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it soon and share the joy it brings with your loved ones. Trust me, this casserole has a way of turning any meal into a cozy celebration.
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Creamy Chicken Mushroom Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Chicken Mushroom Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender chicken breasts sautéed with mushrooms and onions, smothered in a luscious creamy sauce, and baked to perfection. It’s ideal for family dinners and serves 10, offering a perfect balance of rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 1/2 lbs chicken breasts (4 to 5 large), cut into 1-inch thick strips
- 1 1/2 tsp sea salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (plus more to taste)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (to coat the chicken)
- 6 Tbsp olive oil (divided)
Mushroom Mixture
- 1 lb white mushrooms, thickly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup half and half (or 1/2 cup milk + 1/2 cup heavy cream)
- Salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Season and Dredge Chicken: Season the chicken strips with sea salt and black pepper. Thoroughly coat both sides of the chicken pieces in all-purpose flour, ensuring an even dredge.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the floured chicken strips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sauté until golden brown on each side but not fully cooked. Remove and transfer to a 13×9-inch casserole baking dish.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the sliced mushrooms and diced onions, cooking until softened and golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken in the casserole dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan or the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly golden, forming a roux. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and lemon juice until smooth. Add half and half, bring to a gentle simmer, season with salt and black pepper, and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Bake the Casserole: Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the chicken and mushroom mixture in the casserole dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350ËšF (175ËšC) for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is bubbling.
- Serve: Serve the creamy chicken mushroom casserole warm or hot, ideally over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- To avoid overcrowding when sautéing chicken, cook in batches to ensure even browning.
- You can substitute half and half with a mixture of milk and heavy cream if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning of salt and pepper in the sauce to taste.
- Allow casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Use a wide skillet for sautéing mushrooms and onions to get optimal caramelization.
