Oven Baked Chicken Mushroom Cheese Casserole
This Oven Baked Chicken Mushroom Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish: creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and earthy mushrooms. It’s simple to prepare, hearty enough for a weeknight dinner, and perfect for serving a crowd. A golden, cheesy topping adds a satisfying crunch, while the creamy mushroom base keeps every bite flavorful and comforting.
It’s a versatile recipe that pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a side of rice or mashed potatoes. The combination of chicken, mushrooms, and melted cheese makes it a family favorite.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
2 tablespoons butter
Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven. Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish.
Sauté mushrooms. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced mushrooms and sauté 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly browned. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Prepare creamy base. In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheddar, and half of the mozzarella. Stir until smooth.
Mix in chicken and mushrooms. Add shredded chicken and sautéed mushrooms to the creamy mixture. Mix until fully combined.
Transfer to baking dish. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading evenly.
Prepare topping. If using breadcrumbs, combine with remaining mozzarella cheese in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
Bake. Place casserole in preheated oven and bake 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Optional broil. For extra crispness on top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Cool slightly. Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Serve. Portion out and enjoy hot. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired.
Tips
Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience and flavor.
Don’t overcrowd mushrooms when sautéing—they’ll steam instead of caramelize.
Mix cheeses evenly to prevent clumping.
Adjust salt carefully since cheese adds natural saltiness.
For creamier texture, add an extra ¼ cup milk.
Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping.
Avoid over-baking to keep chicken tender.
Fresh thyme or parsley enhances aroma and flavor.
Let casserole sit briefly before serving so it holds together.
For easier cleanup, line the baking dish with parchment paper.
Variations
Broccoli Boost: Add 1–2 cups lightly steamed broccoli to the mixture.
Spicy Kick: Stir in ½ teaspoon cayenne or hot sauce.
Italian Style: Use marinara instead of cream of mushroom and add mozzarella.
Creamy Herb: Mix in 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary.
Low-Carb Version: Skip breadcrumbs; use almond flour topping instead.
Cheese Mix: Substitute Gouda or Monterey Jack for part of cheddar.
Chicken Thighs: Use shredded cooked thighs for juicier meat.
Mushroom Variety: Mix cremini, shiitake, and button mushrooms for richer flavor.
Make-Ahead: Assemble casserole a day ahead and bake just before serving.
Crispy Finish: Add thinly sliced fried onions on top for extra crunch.
Q&A
Can I use raw chicken?
Yes, cook it first or increase baking time to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can this be frozen?
Yes, freeze before baking. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cook time.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute cream of mushroom soup with dairy-free alternative and use vegan cheese.
Is this dish very rich?
It’s creamy and cheesy but can be lightened using Greek yogurt instead of some cheese.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, mix Cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
What sides go well?
Steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Can I prepare ahead?
Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, peas, or zucchini can be added.
Why is my casserole watery?
Likely too much liquid; adjust milk amount and ensure mushrooms are sautéed thoroughly.
How do I get a golden top?
Use breadcrumbs with remaining cheese and broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving, 1/6 of casserole)
Calories: 350–400
Protein: 30–32g
Carbohydrates: 10–12g
Fat: 20–22g
Fiber: 1–2g
Sodium: 700–850mg
Values may vary based on cheese, type of chicken, and added toppings.
Conclusion
This Oven Baked Chicken Mushroom Cheese Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy richness, hearty chicken, and earthy mushrooms under a golden, cheesy crust. It’s straightforward to assemble, versatile with added vegetables or spices, and perfect for both weeknight meals and entertaining.
The combination of textures—tender chicken, soft mushrooms, and crispy topping—creates a comforting, satisfying dish every time. With easy customization options and minimal prep, it’s a reliable go-to recipe for home cooks seeking comfort food without fuss.