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Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole

Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole

A cozy and flavorful Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole combining tender chicken breasts or thighs with a rich medley of earthy wild mushrooms, creamy sauce, and savory aromatics. This casserole is simple to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners, and offers comforting, nutrient-rich, and customizable options for a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 chicken breasts or thighs (about 1.5 lbs), seasoned with salt and pepper

Mushrooms & Vegetables

  • 3 cups wild mushroom mix (shiitake, oyster, cremini, or chanterelles), sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy & Liquids

  • 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Gruyère cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat butter and olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Mushrooms and Aromatics: In the same pan, add more butter if needed, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the wild mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, enhancing their earthy flavors.
  3. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream or sour cream. Stir to combine and let the mixture thicken slightly. Add the fresh herbs now to add brightness and depth to the sauce.
  4. Combine and Layer: Transfer the seared chicken into a baking dish. Pour the mushroom and cream sauce evenly over the chicken. If using, sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy, golden crust.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the topping is bubbly and golden. Let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use fresh mushrooms for best texture and flavor; avoid canned.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when sautéing mushrooms; cook in batches if necessary to promote browning.
  • Simmer the cream sauce until slightly thickened to avoid a watery casserole.
  • Reserve some fresh herbs for garnish to enhance the dish’s appearance and flavor.
  • Allow the casserole to rest after baking so the sauce sets and serving is neater.

Nutrition

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