This Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Bake is a hearty, flavorful casserole packed with tender minced chicken, savory mushrooms, and cheesy goodness. It’s layered with thinly sliced potatoes for a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs 🥚
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) milk 🥛
- 300 g (10.5 oz) minced chicken 🍗
- ½ tsp peppercorns, crushed 🌶️
- 1 tsp grated ginger 🫚
- 1 tsp smoked paprika 🌶️
- 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 60 g (2 oz) onion, finely chopped 🧅
- 100 g (3.5 oz) paprika (red bell pepper), diced 🌶️
- 200 g (7 oz) mushrooms, sliced 🍄
- 400 g (14 oz) potatoes, thinly sliced 🥔
- 200 g (7 oz) cheese, shredded 🧀
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Optional: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Directions
Prepare the Base:
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced chicken, crushed peppercorns, grated ginger, smoked paprika, and garlic. Cook until the chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the onion, diced paprika, and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the Bake:
- Layer half of the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Top with half of the shredded cheese.
- Layer the remaining potato slices on top and season again with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Pour the mixture evenly over the assembled layers in the baking dish.
Top with Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top. If using, add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
- Slice into portions and serve warm.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for a hearty option.
- Enjoy with steamed green beans or roasted vegetables.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup for comfort food vibes.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mandoline to slice potatoes evenly for quicker, uniform cooking.
- Substitute sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- If the cheese browns too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil during the final bake.
- Add chili flakes for a spicy kick or Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist.
- Make it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking for convenience.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from chicken, eggs, and cheese.
- Potatoes provide fiber and energy.
- Mushrooms add antioxidants and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information
- Contains dairy and eggs.
- Gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the potatoes may change.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and filling with layers of flavor and texture.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Bake is a crowd-pleaser that combines savory flavors, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness. It’s an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or special occasions. Give it a try and enjoy the hearty satisfaction of this delicious casserole!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use ground beef instead of chicken?
Yes, ground beef or turkey works as a great substitute. - Can I skip the potatoes?
You can replace them with zucchini or sweet potato slices for a low-carb alternative. - What cheese is best for this dish?
Mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of your favorites melt well and enhance the flavor. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Try spinach, broccoli, or diced carrots for added nutrients. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. - How do I ensure the potatoes cook through?
Slice them very thinly and cover the dish with foil during the first bake to retain moisture. - What can I use instead of milk?
Cream or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk works well. - Can I freeze this casserole?
It’s not recommended as the potatoes may lose texture after freezing and thawing. - Can I omit the eggs?
The eggs help bind the dish, but you can substitute with a dairy-free custard or leave it out for a looser texture. - What pairs well with this dish?
Fresh salads, steamed veggies, or garlic bread make excellent sides!