Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Casserole
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Casserole combines zesty lemon and savory garlic in a rich, comforting dish perfect for family dinners.
Equipment
- 1 Casserole dish 9x13 inches
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Oven preheated to 375°F
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Sear on both sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Place seared chicken in the prepared casserole dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the chicken is cooked through.
Serve
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.
Store and Reheat
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh lemons and garlic for the best flavor. Allow the casserole to rest before serving for a more cohesive dish. Ingredient Substitutions: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter dish, or coconut cream for a dairy-free option. How to Serve: Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables. Storage & Freshness: Best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the sauce and sear chicken in advance. Assemble and store in the fridge until ready to bake.