Chicken and Mushroom Gratin is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. Baked to golden perfection, this gratin is perfect for a cozy dinner and sure to impress your family and guests. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a side of salad, steamed vegetables, or even a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or a mix)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. The chicken does not need to be fully cooked at this stage as it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Mushrooms and Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce:
- In a separate medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the Gratin:
- Arrange the cooked chicken breasts in a baking dish.
- Spoon the mushroom and onion mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the top, ensuring the chicken and mushrooms are well covered.
6. Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese with the breadcrumbs.
- Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the gratin.
7. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- If necessary, you can broil the gratin for the last 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy topping.
8. Serve:
- Remove the gratin from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Success:
- Mushrooms: Using a mix of mushrooms can add depth of flavor to the dish. Cremini, button, and shiitake mushrooms work well together.
- Cheese: Gruyere cheese adds a nice nutty flavor, but Swiss cheese can be used as a substitute. For a sharper taste, you can also mix in some sharp cheddar.
- Thickening the Sauce: Ensure you cook the roux long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste before adding the liquids. Whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
- Browning the Top: For an extra crispy topping, place the gratin under the broiler for the last couple of minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Chicken and Mushroom Gratin is a delightful, savory dish that brings together tender chicken, rich mushrooms, and a luscious creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy, cheesy crust. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, offering a comforting meal that’s both elegant and hearty. Serve it with a simple side salad, some steamed vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread to make it a complete meal. Enjoy the warm, satisfying flavors of this delicious gratin with your loved ones!
