Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
A comforting and quick family meal that combines tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and gooey cheese for a heartwarming dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken Shredded or diced; leftover rotisserie chicken works great!
- 8 oz mushrooms Sliced; cremini or button mushrooms offer a wonderful earthiness.
- 1 cup sour cream For creaminess; substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese A must for that gooey texture; try adding mozzarella for extra stretch.
- 1 cup chicken broth Low-sodium to control the saltiness; vegetable broth is an excellent vegetarian swap.
- 2 cloves garlic Minced; fresh garlic adds depth and flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme For warmth; fresh thyme would be even better if you have it!
- to taste salt To taste.
- to taste pepper To taste.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs For a crunchy topping; panko breadcrumbs create a delightful texture.
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter To sauté the mushrooms and garlic; the choice will depend on your preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to heat while you prepare the rest of the dish.
- Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic: In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking until the mushrooms are softened and fragrant.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, sour cream, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
- Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, ensuring every bite is cheesy.
- Add Breadcrumbs: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese to create a delightful, crunchy topping.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it Rest: After baking, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes
For a healthier option, use skinless chicken breasts and low-fat sour cream. To elevate flavors, add a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms. For a seasonal twist, incorporate fresh herbs like spinach or kale during the mixing phase.