If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal that combines the richness of chicken, the earthiness of mushrooms, and the creaminess of cheddar cheese, this Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole with Potatoes is perfect. It’s a great family dish that’s both filling and flavorful. The tender chicken breast is layered with sautéed mushrooms and onions, potatoes for added heartiness, and a creamy mixture of sour cream and cheddar cheese that melts into a golden, bubbling crust. With a hint of dill to add freshness, this casserole is sure to become a staple at your dinner table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Chicken breast: 1.5 kg (3 lb), cut into chunks
Onion: 2 medium-sized, finely chopped

Mushrooms: 500 g (18 oz), sliced
Black pepper: 2 g (0.1 oz), freshly ground
Salt: 4 g (0.1 oz), to taste

Potatoes: 2 medium-sized, peeled and thinly sliced
Eggs: 1 large, beaten
Sour cream: 100 g (3.5 oz)

Dill: 15 g (0.5 oz), fresh, finely chopped
Cheddar cheese: 150 g (5.3 oz), shredded

Making It Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Slice the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks. Season with salt and pepper.
Thinly slice the potatoes, ensuring they are even for uniform cooking. Set aside.
Slice the mushrooms and chop the onions finely.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a little olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
Sauté the onions for about 5 minutes, until they become translucent.
Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Season the mushrooms and onions with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Base

Lightly grease a baking dish with some olive oil or butter.
Layer the thinly sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish, slightly overlapping.

Place the chicken chunks evenly over the potato layer.

Step 4: Mix the Sour Cream and Egg

In a bowl, whisk together the sour cream, beaten egg, and a handful of the shredded cheddar.
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and chopped dill. This creamy mixture will add richness and bind the casserole together.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the sautéed mushrooms and onions evenly over the chicken layer.
Pour the sour cream mixture over the entire dish, ensuring it seeps through the layers.
Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, spreading it evenly across the surface.

Step 6: Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the chicken is fully cooked.
Garnish with fresh dill for a burst of color and flavor before serving.

Cooking Tips

Cut the Chicken Evenly: To ensure that the chicken cooks evenly, try to cut the breast into similar-sized chunks.
Par-Cook the Potatoes: If you want to ensure the potatoes are perfectly cooked, you can par-boil them for 5 minutes before layering them in the casserole. This helps prevent them from being undercooked.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to make this dish even heartier and nutritious.

Use Different Cheeses: While cheddar works beautifully in this dish, you can experiment with other types of cheese like gouda, mozzarella, or gruyere for different flavors.

Storage

In the Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
In the Freezer: You can freeze the casserole before baking or after cooking. If freezing before baking, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding extra time for cooking. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely, portion it, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g

Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 650mg

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish, though chicken breast works well for a leaner option.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative or use heavy cream for a richer texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just ensure you adjust the baking time if starting from cold.

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
- Yes! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to increase the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.
What can I serve with this casserole?
- This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole with Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with family and friends. The creamy layers of chicken, mushrooms, potatoes, and cheddar cheese make this dish incredibly satisfying and flavorful. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or cheeses, and it stores well for future meals. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite. Serve it up hot and enjoy the melting cheese with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms!