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Asparagus and Chicken Casserole

A delightful casserole combining tender chicken and vibrant asparagus in a creamy sauce, topped with crisp breadcrumbs.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 540 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter (or oil)
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme, chopped (or 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free for gluten-free)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth or milk)
  • 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or sour cream) - optional
  • 1 cup gruyere cheese (or swiss or cheddar), shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

For the casserole

  • 2 pounds asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free for gluten-free)
  • 1/3 cup French-fried onions

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add bite-sized pieces of chicken. Cook until golden brown, about 10 minutes, then remove and set aside.
  • In the same pan, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until onions are tender and mushrooms release moisture, about 10 minutes.
  • Stir in chopped garlic and thyme. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for about 1 minute.
  • Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • Mix cooked chicken back into the sauce. Stir in mayonnaise or sour cream and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Fold in trimmed asparagus and pour mixture into a large baking pan.
  • In a separate small pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, add panko breadcrumbs and stir to coat.
  • Sprinkle buttery breadcrumbs over the casserole and top with French-fried onions.

Baking

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake casserole for 15-20 minutes or until edges are bubbly and top is golden brown.

Serving

  • Serve directly from the baking dish or transfer portions onto plates. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Notes

Using fresh asparagus and quality chicken enhances flavor. Adjust creaminess to preference. For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh herbs.
Keyword Asparagus Chicken Casserole, Casserole Recipe, Chicken Dinner, Comfort Food, Family Meal