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If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends comfort and elegance, the Creamy Chicken Gloria with Mushrooms and Muenster Cheese Recipe is an absolute showstopper. This rich yet approachable casserole unites tender chicken cutlets with earthy cremini mushrooms, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce and crowned with ooey-gooey melted Muenster cheese. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special gathering, this dish promises warmth and indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Though this recipe involves just a handful of ingredients, each one plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible creamy richness you’ll love. From fresh chicken breasts to the unique tang of Muenster cheese, every component is key.
- Chicken breasts: Using large, fresh 3 chicken breasts cut into thinner cutlets ensures quick cooking and tender results.
- Salt & pepper: Simple seasoning that brings out the natural flavors of both chicken and mushrooms.
- Flour: For dredging and thickening the sauce, it adds body and a silky texture.
- Olive oil: Helps achieve a perfect sear on the chicken for golden, flavorful crusts.
- Butter: Divided into multiple steps, it enriches the sauce and mushrooms with creamy goodness.
- Cremini mushrooms: These earthy mushrooms add depth and a pleasant umami note when seared.
- Garlic: Minced garlic layers in aromatic warmth to the sauce.
- Dry sherry: Adds a subtle touch of complexity and brightness to the cream sauce.
- Heavy/whipping cream: The luscious base of the sauce that ties everything together.
- Muenster cheese: Six slices of mellow, creamy Muenster melt beautifully over the chicken creating that irresistible golden top.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Gloria with Mushrooms and Muenster Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Preheat
Before diving into cooking, take a moment to gather and prep all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the upper third of the oven so the cheese browns evenly later on. This initial step sets a smooth pace for the rest of the recipe.
Step 2: Slice and Season the Chicken
Cut your chicken breasts lengthwise into six thinner cutlets. This not only helps them cook quickly but also ensures each piece soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly. Season them generously on both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour and shake off the excess to get that beautiful golden crust on searing.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken
Heat a skillet with olive oil and a tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, browning the chicken cutlets in two batches ensures they develop a lovely color without overcrowding the pan. Aim for about 3-4 minutes per side just to get golden edges; remember the chicken will finish cooking in the oven. Place the browned chicken in a casserole dish as each batch finishes.
Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms
Add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet, then toss in the sliced cremini mushrooms. Sauté them until they’re browned and their moisture has evaporated, allowing their rich, earthy flavor to concentrate. Once done, scatter the mushrooms over and around the chicken in the casserole dish. This layer adds a wonderful texture contrast and depth.
Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce
Still using the same skillet, melt the remaining butter before whisking in two tablespoons of flour and minced garlic. Cook this mixture briefly to eliminate the raw flour taste, stirring almost constantly. Then pour in the dry sherry, scraping the pan to lift up all those delicious browned bits. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth, and let it thicken gently on medium heat. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper here to enhance the flavors without overpowering the delicate creaminess.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour the velvety cream sauce evenly over the chicken and mushrooms in the casserole dish. Arrange the six slices of Muenster cheese on top to create a decadent cheesy blanket. Cover everything with foil and bake for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld and chicken cook through.
Step 7: Broil to Finish
Remove the foil and switch your oven to broil. Keep a close eye on the cheese as it browns and bubbles into a golden, slightly crispy topping — this usually takes just a few minutes. Let the dish rest briefly before serving so all those wonderful juices can redistribute.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Gloria with Mushrooms and Muenster Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives not only adds a splash of vibrant green but also brightens the rich flavors. A light dusting of cracked black pepper on top before serving gives a gentle kick and enhances the earthy mushroom notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
This creamy chicken dish pairs beautifully with light, simple sides that won’t compete with its richness. Consider buttery mashed potatoes, garlic roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. Even a helping of fluffy rice works great to soak up all that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the Creamy Chicken Gloria with Mushrooms and Muenster Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a charming personal touch. Accompany with crusty artisan bread to encourage guests to savor every last bit of the sauce — it’s simply irresistible!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though it rarely happens), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The creamy sauce thickens when chilled, so stirring gently while reheating helps regain that silky texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes quite well. To freeze, cover tightly and place in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to ensure even reheating without compromising the tender chicken or creamy sauce.
Reheating
To reheat, place the dish in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring gently to prevent the cream sauce from separating. For best results, warm slowly to maintain the luscious texture that makes the Creamy Chicken Gloria with Mushrooms and Muenster Cheese Recipe so beloved.
FAQs
Can I substitute the Muenster cheese with another type?
Yes! While Muenster offers a mild and melty quality that complements the dish perfectly, good alternatives include mozzarella or provolone which also melt well without overpowering the flavors.
Is dry sherry necessary for this recipe?
Dry sherry adds a subtle depth and a touch of acidity that balances the creaminess. If you don’t have sherry, a dry white wine or even a splash of apple cider vinegar diluted in broth can work in a pinch.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will yield a juicier and more flavorful result, though they may need slightly different cooking times, so keep an eye on them while searing and baking.
How thick should the cream sauce be before baking?
The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. It will continue to thicken in the oven, so don’t let it get too thick on the stove or the finished dish might dry out.
What can I serve this dish with for a low-carb option?
Pair this decadent chicken with roasted cauliflower, sautéed greens like spinach or kale, or a crisp cucumber salad to keep your meal light and satisfying without excess carbs.
Final Thoughts
Making the Creamy Chicken Gloria with Mushrooms and Muenster Cheese Recipe feels like treating yourself to a cozy, flavorful hug on a plate. It’s genuinely one of those dishes that brings people together, whether for a comforting dinner or impressing guests with minimal fuss. Dive in, savor every bite, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a treasured favorite in your recipe collection!
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Creamy Chicken Gloria with Mushrooms and Muenster Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Gloria is a luscious baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken cutlets smothered in a creamy sherry and mushroom sauce and topped with melted Muenster cheese. This comforting recipe combines seared chicken with a rich, velvety sauce and bubbly browned cheese, making it an elegant yet easy meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3 large chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- Flour for dredging + 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter (1/2 stick), divided
Sauce & Toppings
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry sherry
- 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream
- 6 slices Muenster cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prep Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack in the top third. Prepare all ingredients to have them ready before cooking.
- Prepare Chicken Cutlets: Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 6 thinner cutlets. Generously season both sides of each with salt and pepper, then dredge in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Sear Chicken: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the chicken cutlets in two batches, browning each side for 3-4 minutes without cooking through. Transfer browned chicken to a 9×13 casserole dish. Add more olive oil if needed for the second batch.
- Cook Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and melt over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they’re seared and moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and arrange mushrooms over and around the chicken in the casserole dish.
- Make Sauce Base: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and melt. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of flour and minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute while stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Add Liquids and Thicken Sauce: Pour in the dry sherry, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream to create a smooth sauce. Continue cooking and whisking for a few minutes until the sauce slightly thickens but remains pourable. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Sauce and Chicken: Pour the creamy sherry sauce evenly over the chicken and mushrooms in the casserole dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Place the 6 slices of Muenster cheese on top of the chicken and sauce.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Broil to Brown Cheese: Remove the foil and broil the dish for a few minutes until the cheese is browned and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for several minutes before serving to let the flavors settle.
Notes
- Prepping all ingredients beforehand will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Be careful not to overcook chicken while searing since it will finish cooking in the oven.
- The sauce should be thickened but still pourable before baking, as it will reduce further in the oven.
- Use a dry sherry for the best flavor; avoid sweet varieties.
- Muenster cheese provides a creamy melt and mild flavor, but Swiss or mozzarella can be used as substitutes.
- Watch the broiler closely to prevent the cheese from burning.
