Chicken Au Vin
A hearty chicken casserole featuring tender chicken, toasted almonds, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken breasts, then cut into pieces.
- Cook noodles in broth with a pinch of nutmeg until tender; drain and set aside.
- Mix mashed garlic with salt, cream of mushroom soup, cream, grated Cheddar, mayonnaise, and Sauterne wine to make the sauce.
- Place the cooked noodles in the bottom of a large casserole dish.
- Arrange the chicken pieces on top of the noodles.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and noodles.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese, toasted slivered almonds, sautéed mushrooms, and chopped parsley over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or brandy to the sauce. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the cooked chicken breasts. You can also swap the Cheddar cheese for Gruyère for a different taste. Don’t skimp on the nutmeg; it enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Au Vin pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, you can use the leftovers to make a Chicken Biskette Casserole, which is a delightful way to enjoy this dish again.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Au Vin contains roughly 371 calories, with 19g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and vitamin D (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. At about 371 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar adds a nice flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Fontina or Monterey Jack for a creamier texture. Just ensure the cheese melts well. Each will give a unique twist to the dish, enhancing its deliciousness.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can make a homemade cream of mushroom soup using sautéed mushrooms, milk, and flour to thicken it. Alternatively, a can of cream of chicken soup works well too, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).