Sometimes, when you take a bite of a dish, it can whisk you away to a warm kitchen filled with the aroma of homemade goodness. For me, Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole is one of those comforting recipes that reminds me of family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners after a long day. I can still picture my grandmother bustling about her kitchen, her laughter blending with the sizzling sounds of her culinary creations. This casserole became a staple in our family, a perfect blend of savory chicken, creamy sauce, and just the right amount of tang from Dijon mustard. Now, I’m thrilled to share this delightful dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking: 30 minutes
- Total Duration: 40 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 6
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 365
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbs: 30 grams
- Fats: 15 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugars: 2 grams
- Sodium: 680 mg
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole
This Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole is not just any ordinary dish—it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its velvety texture and a perfect balance of flavors, it’s satisfyingly rich without being overwhelming. The combination of shredded chicken, creamy mushroom soup, and the zingy notes of Dijon mustard come together in harmony, making each mouthful an adventure. Plus, it’s a freezer-friendly recipe that you can prep ahead of time and then pop into the oven whenever you need a wholesome meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed Sunday, it fits right in.
The Complete Cooking Journey
Let’s embrace the joys of cooking as we embark on this flavorful adventure together. Each step of this recipe brings us closer to that delicious casserole bubbling in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your casserole cooks evenly and comes out bubbly and delicious.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. It’s essential to ensure the rice is evenly distributed to absorb all that creamy goodness.
Step 3: Add Your Veggies and Cheese
Stir in the frozen peas and half of the grated cheddar cheese. The peas add a lovely pop of color and texture, making the dish even more appealing.
Step 4: Transfer to Casserole Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly, so each scoop has the same delightful combination of flavors!
Step 5: Top it Off
Top the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if you’re using them. This step adds a delightful crunch to the creamy base, creating a beautiful contrast.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the cheese is golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make it hard to wait!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let it cool slightly before serving. This helps the casserole set a bit, making for easier slicing and serving!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This casserole is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness. If you’re looking for something comforting on the side, some buttery garlic bread or steamed broccoli would work wonderfully. A glass of chilled white wine can elevate this dish to a special occasion meal!
Storage & Leftovers Guide
If you have leftovers (and trust me, you’ll want them!), allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use—just be sure to wrap it well in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Perfect Chicken: If you need cooked chicken in a hurry, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds flavor and reduces prep time.
- Rice Variations: You can use different types of rice—brown rice for a heartier option or even quinoa for a modern twist.
- Cream Alternatives: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can make a quick homemade version with sautéed mushrooms, cream, and a little flour for thickness.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other veggies like bell peppers or corn for added nutritional value and flavor.
- Invite Your Little Helpers: This is a great dish to make with kids! They can help combine ingredients and sprinkle cheese on top.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Want to change things up? Try adding a splash of white wine for depth, or swap the cheddar for a tangy feta. You could even experiment with different mustards for a unique twist on flavor.
Reader Questions & Solutions
-
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
- You can substitute it with yellow mustard or even a tablespoon of mayonnaise for a milder taste.
-
Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
- Yes! If you use uncooked chicken, dice it into small pieces and adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s cooked through.
-
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or skip them altogether and use gluten-free flour in the mushroom soup.
-
What can I do if I find the casserole too dry?
- Next time, try adding a bit more chicken broth or cream before baking, or serve it with a flavorful sauce on the side.
-
How can I make a dairy-free version?
- Use coconut cream instead of cream of mushroom and a non-dairy cheese alternative.
Wrapping Up
This Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a memory in the making. With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, you can create a dish that brings warmth to your table and joy to your heart. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure—your family will thank you! Happy cooking!
Print
Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free (if substitutions made)
Description
A comforting and delicious casserole with shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and a tangy twist from Dijon mustard, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, Dijon mustard, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Stir in frozen peas and half of the grated cheddar cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Top the casserole with remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly, and cheese is golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Pairs beautifully with a green salad, garlic bread, or steamed broccoli. Freezer-friendly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
