Mary Berry Chicken Casserole
Dive into the comfort of Mary Berry's Chicken Casserole, a dish that beautifully combines the richness of chicken, bacon, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, all brought together with the fragrant touch of herbs. This recipe, originating from the beloved Mary Berry, showcases her flair for creating heartwarming meals that are perfect for gathering your family around the dinner table.
Mary Berry's Chicken Casserole: A Brief Overview
Ingredients for the Chicken Casserole:
- Chicken thighs (bone-in, skinless) and dry-cured bacon provide the base proteins.
- Aromatic vegetables like onions and chestnut mushrooms add depth.
- The sauce gains complexity from dry white wine, hot chicken stock, and full-fat crème fraîche.
- Herbs such as thyme, sage, and bay leaves infuse the dish with their distinctive flavors.
- Flour and sunflower oil are used in the cooking process, along with a touch of butter for frying the sage leaves.
Preparation Instructions:
- Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your chicken and bacon.
- Fry the bacon and onions before browning the chicken.
- Flour is then used to thicken the sauce, into which stock and wine are stirred.
- Herbs are added before the dish goes into the oven, followed by mushrooms and crème fraîche for a final bake.
- Crisp sage leaves are prepared separately and used as a garnish.
Storage and Reheating
For optimal freshness, store the casserole in the refrigerator in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days. Reheating is best done in the oven or microwave, with a little added water to prevent the sauce from drying out.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this casserole is a rich source of protein and provides a good balance of fats, with the creamy sauce contributing to its calorie count. Detailed nutritional breakdowns can vary based on specific ingredient choices and serving sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use boneless chicken thighs? Yes, although bone-in thighs add more flavor, boneless thighs can also be used with a slight adjustment in cooking time.
- What can I substitute for dry white wine? Chicken broth or apple juice are great alternatives.
- Can this recipe be made ahead of time? Absolutely, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld even more.
- Is there a dairy-free alternative to crème fraîche? Coconut milk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative can be used for a similar creamy texture.
Mary Berry's Chicken Casserole is a testament to her ability to craft dishes that are both simple and deeply flavorful. It's a recipe that promises not just a meal but an experience, perfect for cozy evenings or special gatherings. Enjoy this delightful casserole with your loved ones, basking in the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.
For more detailed instructions and additional tips from Mary Berry herself, you can find the original recipe and insights on The Happy Foodie, Simple Home Cooked Recipes, and Foodelity.