Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole
This comforting Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole is a beloved dish that brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. Originating from a heartfelt fund-raiser cookbook supporting the Ronald McDonald House in Michigan, this recipe has become a family favorite for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Tender chicken pieces are enveloped in a creamy layer of melted muenster cheese, combined with earthy mushrooms, all baked to perfection in a savory broth. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this casserole is sure to please both adults and children alike.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
3 (cut into bite-sized pieces)
eggs
2 (beaten)
dry breadcrumbs
1 cup (plain or seasoned)
parsley flakes
1 tablespoon (dried)
garlic powder
1 teaspoon (ground)
margarine or butter
1 tablespoon (melted)
fresh mushrooms
1 lb (cut in half or sliced)
muenster cheese
6 ounces (sliced)
chicken broth
1/2 cup (low sodium preferred)
Instructions
1
Begin by marinating the chicken pieces in beaten eggs for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to enhance flavor and tenderness.
2
In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the dry breadcrumbs, parsley flakes, and garlic powder. Seal the bag and shake to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
3
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator, and add it to the breadcrumb mixture. Seal the bag again and shake until the chicken is evenly coated with the breadcrumbs.
4
In a skillet over medium heat, heat a splash of oil and brown the coated chicken pieces until they are golden on the outside. Drain any excess oil and set the chicken aside.
5
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 13x9-inch baking dish, melt the margarine or butter, making sure the bottom is well coated.
6
Add the browned chicken and sliced mushrooms evenly over the melted margarine/butter in the baking dish. Layer the muenster cheese slices generously on top of the chicken and mushrooms.
7
Carefully pour the chicken broth over the entire dish, allowing it to seep through the layers.
8
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. After baking, carefully remove the foil and stir the contents gently to ensure even distribution of flavors before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole?
It is a comforting, hearty dish featuring tender chicken pieces, earthy mushrooms, and melted muenster cheese baked in a savory broth.
Where did this recipe originate?
This recipe comes from a fundraiser cookbook created for the Ronald McDonald House in Michigan.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
The chicken should be marinated in beaten eggs for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator for best results.
What type of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces.
What kind of cheese is used in this casserole?
The recipe specifically uses 6 ounces of sliced muenster cheese for its creamy texture.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The dish should be baked covered with aluminum foil for 45 minutes.
Do I need to cook the chicken before putting it in the oven?
Yes, the breaded chicken should be browned in a skillet over medium heat until golden before being added to the baking dish.
How should I prepare the mushrooms?
You should use 1 lb of fresh mushrooms, either cut in half or sliced.
What size baking dish is required?
A 13x9-inch baking dish is the recommended size for this recipe.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use 1 tablespoon of either melted margarine or butter to coat the baking dish.
How do I coat the chicken in breadcrumbs?
Place the breadcrumbs, parsley, and garlic powder in a large resealable bag, add the marinated chicken, and shake until evenly coated.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The recipe uses dried parsley flakes and ground garlic powder mixed with the breadcrumbs.
Why is chicken broth added to the recipe?
The chicken broth is poured over the layers to add moisture and flavor as the dish bakes.
Is it necessary to cover the dish with foil?
Yes, covering the dish with aluminum foil helps keep the chicken tender and prevents the cheese from burning during the 45-minute bake.
Should I stir the casserole after baking?
Yes, after removing it from the oven, stir the contents gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors before serving.
What type of breadcrumbs are best?
You can use 1 cup of either plain or seasoned dry breadcrumbs.
Can I use low-sodium broth?
Yes, low-sodium chicken broth is actually preferred for this recipe.
How much garlic powder is needed?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of ground garlic powder.
What is the role of the eggs in this recipe?
The eggs act as a marinade that enhances the tenderness of the chicken and helps the breadcrumb coating adhere.
How much cheese is required?
You will need 6 ounces of sliced muenster cheese.
Can I use frozen mushrooms?
While fresh mushrooms are recommended for texture, you could use frozen if they are properly thawed and drained.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is described as a family favorite that is sure to please both adults and children.
What should I do after browning the chicken?
Drain any excess oil from the chicken before placing it into the prepared baking dish.
How much parsley is used?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of dried parsley flakes.
Is this a one-pan meal?
While it requires a skillet for browning, it is considered an easy-to-serve one-pan style casserole once baked.
How much chicken broth do I need?
You will need 1/2 cup of chicken broth.
Can I make this for a special occasion?
Absolutely, its rich flavors make it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
How do I ensure the bottom of the dish doesn't stick?
Melt the margarine or butter in the baking dish first, ensuring the bottom is well coated before adding the ingredients.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The dish features a creamy layer of melted cheese over tender chicken and mushrooms with a savory liquid base.