Chicken Gloria Casserole

Step into a world of comforting flavors and culinary delight with our Chicken Gloria Casserole recipe. This dish is a harmonious symphony of tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce, all baked to perfection in a comforting casserole. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or craving a cozy weeknight meal, Chicken Gloria Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic dish with minimal effort. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds singing with joy.

Ingredients:

• 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup sherry wine
• 1 (18 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 6 slices Swiss or Muenster cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them in flour until evenly coated.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Saute the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, melt butter and add sliced mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour sherry wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Sauce: Stir in cream of mushroom soup and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
6. Assemble the Casserole: Arrange the seared chicken breasts in a single layer in a greased casserole dish. Pour the mushroom sauce over the chicken.
7. Top with Cheese: Place slices of Swiss or Muenster cheese on top of the chicken and sauce, covering evenly.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of Chicken Gloria Casserole.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the mushroom sauce.
• Vegetable Variation: Add extra vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the mushroom sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless skinless chicken thighs or pork chops for a variation on this classic dish.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• To make a keto-friendly version of this recipe, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for dredging the chicken.
• Replace the sherry wine with chicken broth or dry white wine for a lower-carb option.
• Use a low-carb cream of mushroom soup or make your own using heavy cream, mushrooms, and vegetable broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
   • Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer in this recipe. Gruyere, provolone, or cheddar would all work well as substitutes for Swiss or Muenster cheese.
2. Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
   • Yes, you can omit the sherry wine from the recipe if desired. Simply increase the amount of chicken broth or water to maintain the desired consistency of the sauce.
3. Can I use canned mushrooms instead of fresh?
   • While fresh mushrooms are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned mushrooms as a substitute if fresh mushrooms are not available. Be sure to drain them well before adding them to the skillet.
4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for dredging the chicken, and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and cheese are also gluten-free.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
   • Yes, leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or oven.
6. What can I serve with Chicken Gloria Casserole?
   • This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Choose your favorite accompaniments to complete the meal.
7. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of boneless?
   • Yes, bone-in chicken breasts can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken breasts may take longer to cook.

Delight in the comforting flavors of Chicken Gloria Casserole – a classic dish that brings together tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce in a delightful casserole. Whether you’re craving a cozy family dinner or planning a special occasion feast, this recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of this timeless dish with minimal effort. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to savor the deliciousness of Chicken Gloria Casserole.