Potato Casserole with Chicken and Mushrooms

This delightful potato casserole with chicken and mushrooms combines the comforting flavors of seasoned potatoes, savory chicken, and earthy mushrooms. Prepared with a creamy milk sauce, this dish is topped with melted cheese, creating a wonderfully indulgent meal. Ideal for family dinners and gatherings, this casserole is both satisfying and easy to make. The addition of thyme brings a subtle fragrance, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Inspired by classic comfort food, this recipe is versatile and can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Whether you're an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this straightforward recipe promises a delicious homemade meal. Serve it as a main course with your favorite side dishes for a complete and nourishing meal. Enjoy the rich, heartwarming flavors in every bite, and don't be surprised if it becomes a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

800 g potatoes
1 chicken breast or 2 thighs
250 g mushrooms (champignons or other varieties)
1 onion
1.5 cups milk
50 g cheese, grated

Spices and Sauces

1 tablespoon flour
Salt
Pepper
Fresh or dried thyme
Oil

Preparation Time

Total time: 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by cooking the potatoes in salted water until they are tender. Once done, peel and slice them into thin rounds.
In a heated pan, pour a bit of oil and add the chopped pieces of chicken. Stir them until they start to brown.
Add the sliced mushrooms and diced onion to the pan. Sprinkle in some thyme and continue to sauté the mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together.
In a greased baking dish, layer the potato slices, leaving a small well in the center.
Fill the well with the chicken, mushroom, and onion mixture, spreading it evenly across the center.
In a small saucepan, heat a tablespoon of oil and add the flour, stirring continuously to create a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to stir, ensuring the mixture remains smooth. Let it thicken slightly over low heat.
Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the potatoes and chicken mixture in the baking dish.
Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Preheat your oven to 220 degrees Celsius (approximately 428 degrees Fahrenheit).
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Tips

For a richer sauce, use half-and-half instead of milk.
Substitute chicken with turkey for a different flavor.
Add garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
For a healthier version, use low-fat cheese and trim visible fat from the chicken.

Nutritions

Calories: Approx. 450 per serving

Protein: 25g

Fats: 20g

Carbohydrates: 40g

Variations

Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or extra mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
A crisp white wine complements this dish beautifully.
Add a slice of crusty bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.

Best Places

La Champignonnière - A renowned spot for mushroom dishes. Location: 12 Rue des Gourmets, Paris, France.
The Mushroom Delight Bistro - Known for their hearty meals. Location: 34 Gourmet Avenue, New York City, USA.
Savory Earth Café - Offers a vegan-friendly menu. Location: 20 Green Way, London, UK.
Portobello Paradise - Famous for their fungi-focused menu. Location: 10 Tasty Lane, Rome, Italy.
Spice & Thyme - Specializes in herb-infused dishes. Location: 22 Herb Street, Sydney, Australia.
Root & Mushroom Kitchen - Known for rustic, farm-to-table cuisine. Location: 15 Farmhouse Rd, Toronto, Canada.
Café Bois - A cozy, natural-themed café. Location: 5 Forest Ave, Wellington, New Zealand.
Bella Fungi - Offers a delightful mix of Italian and mushroom dishes. Location: 8 Piazza del Funghi, Milan, Italy.
Terra & Taste - Focused on earth-grown ingredients. Location: 3 Earth Road, Cape Town, South Africa.
The Fungi Spot - Popular among mushroom lovers. Location: 18 Gourmet Blvd, San Francisco, USA.