If you're on the hunt for a hearty and mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends, look no further than Alice Springs Chicken Casserole! This American classic combines succulent chicken breasts, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection in a creamy Dijon sauce. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can create a comforting meal that’s not only delicious but also easy to make. Get ready to delight your taste buds and fill your home with the irresistible aroma of this delectable casserole—your dinner plans will never be the same!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, ensuring even coverage.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, whisking until smooth and well-blended. This will serve as the base sauce for the chicken.
- Place seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer without overlapping.
- Spread the mayonnaise-mustard mixture evenly over each chicken breast, creating a complete coating.
- Sprinkle sliced mushrooms uniformly across the chicken breasts.
- Top each chicken breast with crumbled bacon, distributing it evenly to ensure every piece gets bacon flavor.
- Cover the entire surface of each chicken breast with shredded cheddar cheese, creating a rich and melty topping.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and retain moisture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove foil during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to allow cheese to become golden and slightly crispy.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot with your choice of side dishes like roasted vegetables or rice.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the chicken and sauce the night before. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you're ready to eat.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and cheese for the best flavor. A sharp cheddar will add a nice kick to the dish.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients! Sautéed onions, bell peppers, or even jalapeños can elevate the dish even further.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-7 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Pair It Right: Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
