Name: Delicious Chicken Gloria Comfort Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (8 ounces each); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon white pepper; 8 tablespoons butter (divided); 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided); 1 pound cremini mushrooms (sliced); 1 medium sweet onion (cut into strips); 1 tablespoon garlic (minced); 1/4 cup dry sherry wine; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup chicken stock; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 8 ounces Muenster cheese (sliced)

Welcome to an irresistible recipe for Chicken Gloria, a savory and comforting dish filled with tender chicken, mushrooms, and onions, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sherry sauce. This charming casserole, topped with melted Muenster cheese, has a way of bringing warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. Whether you’re serving family on a cozy weeknight or entertaining guests, this meal’s delicious flavor and delightful aroma will surely impress everyone.

Chicken Gloria stands out not just for its taste but also for its simplicity. With a few pantry staples, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet. Each layer of flavor—from the sautéed mushrooms to the addition of a splash of sherry—creates a symphony of taste that enchants the palate. Plus, with minimal prep work required, this comforting casserole makes it easy to unwind while cooking at home.

This dish is perfect for those who love hearty meals that make you feel like you’re being enveloped in a warm hug. It’s not just a meal but an experience, and with each bite, you’ll find yourself craving more. So, let’s dive into this delightful Chicken Gloria recipe and bring comfort straight to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gloria

Comfort Food Classic: This casserole showcases flavors that are deeply satisfying and familiar, making it the perfect comfort food.
Easily Customizable: With various options for substitutions, you can cater this recipe to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready for a quick dinner solution during busy weekdays.
Feeds a Crowd: This hearty dish is ideal for family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process of Chicken Gloria, it’s essential to set up your kitchen. Clear your counter space and gather all the ingredients. Prepping beforehand is crucial for success, so ensure that you have everything within reach.

You’ll need a 9×13 inch casserole dish, a large sauté pan, and some good chef’s knives for chopping. A heavy-bottomed pan will work best for browning the chicken, as it distributes the heat evenly, allowing for a perfect sear. Additionally, having measuring cups and spoons handy will make your measuring precise and efficient. Don’t forget a heat-proof spatula to stir and scrape up those delicious browned bits left in the pan!

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (8 ounces each)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
8 tablespoons butter (divided)
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
1 pound cremini mushrooms (sliced)
1 medium sweet onion (cut into strips)
1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
1/4 cup dry sherry wine
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup chicken stock
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
8 ounces Muenster cheese (sliced)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by prepping your chicken breasts. Butterfly each one by slicing them horizontally and then cutting them in half, which gives you eight pieces in total. This method allows for quick cooking and ensures tenderness. Dredge the chicken pieces in a seasoned flour mix made of all-purpose flour, salt, and white pepper.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for the casserole. While it warms, take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and lightly coat it with non-stick spray. Once your chicken is dredged, set it aside while you continue preparing the other root ingredients.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large sauté pan, melt half of the butter with half of the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add four pieces of chicken to the skillet, letting them brown for approximately 2-3 minutes per side. This step not only seals in juices but also builds flavor. Once browned, transfer the chicken pieces carefully to the prepared casserole dish.

Step 4: Sauté the Mushrooms

Using the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once melted, add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the pan and sauté them until they are beautifully browned and fragrant—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes. Once browned, add the mushrooms over the chicken in the casserole dish, layering the flavors nicely.

Step 5: Cook the Onions and Garlic

Next, add the remaining butter and oil to the sauté pan. Toss in the strips of sweet onion and sauté them for about 3 minutes until they’re tender and slightly translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute, stirring to prevent it from burning. Follow up by adding dry sherry wine and allowing it to evaporate, which will intensify the flavor.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Sauce

Afterward, sprinkle in the remaining flour into the pan and cook for about two minutes, allowing it to absorb the rich flavors present. Slowly pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously and cooking for another couple of minutes. Gradually, whisk in the heavy cream, and continue cooking until the mixture comes to a bubbling simmer. This creamy sauce will be the luxurious blanket for the chicken and mushrooms.

Step 7: Assemble and Bake

Carefully pour the cream mixture over the chicken and mushrooms in the casserole dish. Evenly distribute the sliced Muenster cheese on top. To keep the dish moist during baking, cover it with parchment paper followed by aluminum foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Your Chicken Gloria is now al dente and ready to serve!

Variations

Protein: Substitute chicken with turkey for a hearty twist or opt for shrimp for a seafood variation.
Vegetables: Add a medley of seasonal vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Spices: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the aroma and flavor profiles of the dish.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to not overcrowd the pan while browning the chicken. Doing so can result in steaming rather than browning.
Keep an eye on the broiler while browning the cheese, as it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Gloria over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to absorb the delicious sauce.
A simple side salad can complement this rich casserole, adding freshness to each bite.

Tips

For a quicker option, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken in place of raw chicken, which will drastically shorten your cooking time!
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set, making it easier to serve.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 450
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the Chicken Gloria up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you bake it.

What can I use instead of sherry wine?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can replace sherry with additional chicken stock or a splash of vinegar mixed with water to balance acidity.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months for later enjoyment.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! If Muenster is not available or to your taste, cheeses like mozzarella or gouda can work well too.

Conclusion

With its inviting flavors and comforting texture, Chicken Gloria is truly a dish that offers hearty satisfaction. Perfect for family meals or casual entertaining, it’s a recipe that encourages everyone to come together and enjoy a delicious experience. Don’t be afraid to get creative with variations and serve alongside your favorite sides. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments below! Try it out and relish in the comfort this casserole brings to your table.