Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole

Happy Sunday guys!
Today, we’re diving into the world of rustic elegance with a dish that combines tender, succulent chicken with the earthy goodness of wild mushrooms. This Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavourful dish.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 300g spinach
• 300g ounces mixed wild mushrooms (such as shiitake and oyster), sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 150ml dry white wine
• 200ml chicken broth
• 120ml double cream
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• a bunch of fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the wild mushroom sauce. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sliced wild mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
4. Pour in the dry white wine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavours to meld.

1. Stir in the chicken broth, double cream, dried thyme, and chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-12 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Set it aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 190°C.
3. Remove the marinated chicken breasts from the refrigerator. In an oven-safe casserole dish, arrange the chicken in a single layer.
4. Pour the prepared wild mushroom sauce over the chicken, covering each breast generously.
5. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is golden and crispy. Take it out of the oven and add the fresh spinach.
6. Serve your Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole hot, garnished with additional fresh parsley if desired.

This Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole is a testament to the exquisite combination of tender chicken and the deep, earthy richness of wild mushrooms. The luscious cream sauce, enhanced with white wine, creates a luxurious backdrop for this hearty dish.

Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion, a comforting family dinner, or a gathering with friends, this casserole is the epitome of rustic elegance.

So, give this recipe a try and savour the robust and comforting flavours of Wild Mushroom Chicken Casserole. It’s an exceptional dish that’s bound to impress your loved ones and leave them craving for more. Enjoy this savoury masterpiece that embodies rustic elegance on your plate.