Pin This creamy chicken and mushroom casserole is the ultimate comfort food for those evenings when you need something hearty and satisfying. The combination of tender chicken pieces and earthy mushrooms in a velvety cream sauce creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I've refined this recipe over many family gatherings, and it's become our go-to when comfort food cravings strike.
This recipe saved me during a particularly hectic holiday season when unexpected guests arrived. I quickly assembled it while catching up with family, popped it in the oven, and everyone raved about the "hours of work" I must have put into dinner. It's been my secret weapon for entertaining ever since.
Ingredients
- Boneless chicken thighs or breasts: The dark meat of thighs provides more flavor and stays juicier during baking, but breasts work well for a leaner option
- Cremini mushrooms: These brown mushrooms offer more depth than white button varieties, but either works beautifully
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness as it cooks down and forms the flavor foundation
- Heavy cream: Creates that luxurious, silky texture that makes this casserole so comforting
- Cream cheese: The secret ingredient that thickens the sauce and adds tanginess to balance the richness
- Dried thyme: Brings an earthy, aromatic quality that pairs perfectly with mushrooms
- Parmesan cheese: Forms a golden, slightly crispy top layer that adds textural contrast
Instructions
- Prepare the base:
- Begin by melting butter in your ovenproof skillet over medium heat until it foams slightly but doesn't brown. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The aromatics should become translucent and fragrant after about 2 to 3 minutes, releasing their essential oils into the butter.
- Cook the mushrooms:
- Add your sliced mushrooms to the skillet, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Be patient during this step which takes about 5 minutes. The mushrooms will first release moisture, then begin to brown as that moisture evaporates. This concentrates their earthy flavor and prevents a watery sauce later.
- Brown the chicken:
- Add your bite sized chicken pieces to the mushroom mixture, stirring to distribute evenly. Cook just until the outside loses its raw appearance and begins to turn slightly golden, about 4 to 5 minutes. The chicken will finish cooking in the oven, so avoid overcooking at this stage.
- Create the sauce:
- Sprinkle flour evenly over the mixture and stir continuously for one minute to cook off the raw flour taste. This creates a roux that will thicken your sauce. Pour in the chicken broth, using your spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan these contain concentrated flavor. Add the cream, softened cream cheese, and seasonings, stirring until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated. Let the mixture gently simmer until it begins to thicken slightly.
- Bake to perfection:
- If not using an ovenproof skillet, transfer everything to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, which will create a beautiful golden crust. Bake uncovered at 400°F for exactly 20 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce set slightly.
Pin The cream cheese in this recipe is my absolute favorite ingredient. I discovered its magic by accident when I was short on heavy cream one night. The tangy richness it adds completely transforms the sauce from good to exceptional. My grandmother always said a good cream sauce needs "a little something special," and this is definitely it.
Make It Ahead
This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights because you can prepare it entirely in advance. Simply follow all steps up to baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking. You may need to add 5-7 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight, making this an ideal dish for entertaining when you want to minimize day-of cooking stress.
Serving Suggestions
While this casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Fluffy white rice soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly, while buttered egg noodles offer a comforting combination. For a lower-carb option, serve alongside roasted cauliflower or steamed green beans. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. For special occasions, consider serving with crusty artisan bread for sopping up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Simple Substitutions
If cream isn't your preference, substitute half-and-half or even whole milk mixed with a bit more flour for thickening. The sauce won't be quite as rich but still delicious. Turkey cutlets work beautifully in place of chicken, especially around Thanksgiving when you might have leftovers. For a vegetarian version, double the mushrooms and add a can of drained white beans for protein. Those avoiding dairy can use coconut cream and dairy-free cream cheese, though the flavor profile will change slightly. Remember that gluten-free flour blends substitute perfectly for all-purpose flour in this recipe.
Mushroom Selection Guide
The type of mushrooms you choose can significantly impact the final flavor of your casserole. Standard white button mushrooms work perfectly well and have a mild flavor that children often prefer. Cremini mushrooms (also called baby bellas) offer a more robust, earthy flavor while maintaining a similar texture. For a gourmet touch, mix in some shiitake or oyster mushrooms, which bring unique textures and deeper umami notes. Whatever variety you choose, avoid washing mushrooms under running water which makes them soggy. Instead, clean them with a damp paper towel or mushroom brush to remove any dirt.
Pin This casserole is so comforting and delicious, it's sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, either chicken breasts or thighs work well, depending on your texture and flavor preference.
- → How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- → What can I serve alongside this casserole?
It's delicious with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a crusty slice of bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely! Stir in peas, spinach, or your favorite vegetables before baking for added color and nutrition.
- → Is it possible to prepare in advance?
You can assemble the dish ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving. Add a few minutes to the baking time.
- → Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Parmesan adds a savory finish, but Gruyère or mozzarella also melt beautifully and complement the creamy sauce.