Busy weeknights and lazy weekends call for a simple, hearty dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. This chicken and mushroom casserole is your perfect solution – a creamy, satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly and will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 350g chicken breast, diced
- 250g fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 large shallot, finely chopped
- Fresh chives, chopped
- 40g butter
- 40g all-purpose flour
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 400ml milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces
- Clean and slice mushrooms
- Finely chop the shallot
- Chop fresh chives
- Cook the Chicken
- Melt butter in a large skillet or casserole dish
- Sauté chicken until golden brown and cooked through
- Remove chicken and set aside
- Sauté Mushrooms
- In the same pan, sauté chopped shallots
- Add sliced mushrooms
- Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and become golden
- Create the Sauce
- Sprinkle flour over mushrooms
- Stir to coat and cook for 1-2 minutes
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly
- Crumble chicken bouillon cube into the mixture
- Simmer until sauce thickens
- Combine and Finish
- Return chicken to the pan
- Stir to coat with sauce
- Season with salt and pepper
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes
- Garnish with fresh chives
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 320-350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 18g
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 3-4
Pro Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use high-quality, fresh mushrooms for best flavor
- Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender
- Stir sauce constantly to prevent lumps
- Use low-fat milk for a lighter version
- Add a splash of white wine for extra depth
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Low-Carb Option: Replace flour with cornstarch
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute chicken with tofu or plant-based protein
- Herb Variations: Add rosemary, thyme, or sage
- Spicy Version: Include red pepper flakes
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken? A: Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Q2: What can I serve with this casserole? A: Rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread work perfectly.
Q3: How can I make it more creamy? A: Add a splash of cream or use half-and-half.
Q4: Can I use different mushrooms? A: Absolutely! Mix button, shiitake, or cremini mushrooms.
Q5: Is this dish kid-friendly? A: Yes, mild flavors make it great for children.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for 3-4 days
- Reheating: Warm gently on stovetop, add splash of milk if needed
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 1 month, thaw in refrigerator
A delicious, creamy casserole that proves comfort food can be quick and easy!