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Creamy Muenster Chicken Casserole

Creamy Muenster Chicken Casserole
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Creamy Muenster Chicken Casserole is a rich, comforting dish combining tender chicken, a luscious cream sauce, and perfectly melted Muenster cheese. This hearty casserole is easy to prepare and adaptable to suit various tastes and dietary needs, making it a family-friendly, delicious meal ideal for weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breasts, cubed

Cheese & Dairy

  • 2 cups shredded Muenster cheese
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons butter (divided)

Aromatics

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

Herbs & Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme or parsley
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cook chicken breasts thoroughly by pan-searing, baking, or poaching. Let them cool, then cut into bite-sized cubes to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh or dried herbs like thyme or parsley.
  3. Combine and Layer: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cubed chicken with the creamy sauce and shredded Muenster cheese. Transfer this mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer.
  4. Add the Topping: Combine breadcrumbs with the remaining melted butter (about 2 tablespoons) until evenly coated. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs generously over the casserole to create a golden, crunchy topping.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling with a delicious aroma.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded Muenster cheese for a smoother and creamier melt compared to pre-shredded varieties.
  • Butter the breadcrumbs well to add a necessary crunchy contrast to the creamy base.
  • Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
  • Brighten the dish by adding a splash of lemon juice or extra fresh herbs to balance the creaminess.
  • If adding vegetables, sauté them beforehand to ensure they are tender and flavorful.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy chicken casserole, Muenster cheese casserole, comfort food, family dinner, cheesy chicken bake, easy chicken recipe, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/creamy-muenster-chicken-casserole/