The Ultimate Cheesy Chicken and Mushroom Bake
If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and comforting chicken dish, this Chicken Gloria Casserole is the perfect recipe. This classic dish features pan-seared chicken breasts nestled in a velvety mushroom sauce, enriched with sherry wine, sour cream, and condensed cream of mushroom soup for an ultra-indulgent texture. Topped with melty, golden mozzarella cheese, this casserole bakes to bubbly perfection, creating a dish that’s both elegant and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, this cheesy, creamy masterpiece will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Gloria Casserole Recipe
This dish is easy to make yet packed with gourmet flavors. The sherry wine adds a depth of richness, balancing the earthy mushrooms and creamy sauce. The chicken remains tender and juicy, absorbing the flavors of the sauce while baking. The mozzarella cheese melts into a beautifully golden crust, making each bite cheesy, savory, and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, meaning easy preparation and minimal cleanup!
Secrets to the Best Chicken Gloria Casserole
The key to making the most flavorful casserole is searing the chicken before baking. This locks in the juices and creates a beautiful golden crust. Cooking the mushrooms separately allows them to develop deep, rich flavor without becoming soggy. Using sherry wine enhances the overall taste, giving the sauce a restaurant-quality richness. If you want the cheese topping to be extra golden and bubbly, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
Ingredients for the Creamiest Chicken Gloria Casserole
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- ½ cup sherry wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Gloria Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then dredge them lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and transfer to a baking dish. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and tender. Pour in the sherry wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing until smooth and well combined. Pour the creamy mushroom sauce over the chicken in the baking dish, ensuring the chicken is fully coated. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is bubbly. If desired, broil for 1-2 minutes to get a golden, crispy cheese topping. Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
What to Serve with Chicken Gloria Casserole
This dish is rich and creamy, so it pairs beautifully with light and fresh side dishes. Serve it with buttery mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or steamed green beans to balance the richness. A side of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls is perfect for soaking up the extra creamy sauce. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach.
Customizations and Variations
For a stronger cheese flavor, swap mozzarella for Gruyère or Swiss cheese. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat cream of mushroom soup. You can also add crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or stir in baby spinach or artichoke hearts for extra vegetables. To make it gluten-free, replace the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend.