Imagine a dish that combines the richness of creamy chicken and mushrooms with a crispy, golden potato topping that will make your entire family eager to gather around the dinner table. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious, hearty meal that’s both elegant and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering, this chicken and mushroom casserole is about to become your new favorite comfort food.
Ingredients
- 300 g / 10.5 oz chicken breast
- 250 g / 8.8 oz mushrooms
- 3-4 medium potatoes (approximately 400-500 g / 14-17.6 oz)
- 1 large onion
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 250 ml / 1 cup milk
- 150 g / 5.3 oz cream
- 100 g / 3.5 oz grated cheese (preferably a melting cheese like Gruyère or Cheddar)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Potatoes Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Wash potatoes and boil in cold water for 6 minutes after reaching a boil. Drain, cool, and carefully peel.
- Prepare the Proteins and Vegetables Wash chicken breast and cut into bite-sized pieces. Clean and slice mushrooms. Peel and finely dice the onion.
- Cook the Chicken Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a large frying pan. Sauté chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Mushroom Sauce In the same pan, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until all liquid evaporates. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir continuously.
- Create the Creamy Sauce Gradually pour in milk and cream while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole Transfer the chicken and mushroom mixture to an ovenproof dish. Grate the cooled potatoes using a coarse grater and spread evenly over the sauce. Lightly salt the potato layer and sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
- Bake to Perfection Place the casserole in the middle of the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown and crispy.
Nutritional Information and Serving Details
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Approximate Nutrition per Serving:
- Calories: 400-450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 22g
Why This Recipe Is a Nutritional Powerhouse
This dish is more than just delicious—it’s a balanced meal packed with nutrients. Chicken provides lean protein, mushrooms offer essential minerals and B vitamins, and potatoes contribute complex carbohydrates and potassium. The cream and cheese add calcium and richness, making this a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot directly from the oven. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or steamed vegetables. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh chopped herbs just before serving.
Pro Tip: For a lighter version, you can substitute half the cream with low-fat milk and use a reduced-fat cheese.