Chicken Tavern Style
A hearty chicken dish with creamy mushroom sauce layered over rice and baked until golden, perfect for comforting family dinners and those who enjoy rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend flour into butter to form a smooth paste.
- Add evaporated milk and liquid from mushrooms to the mixture.
- Add chicken broth to make a total of 4 cups of liquid.
- Stir in turmeric, salt, and oregano into the liquid mixture.
- Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens.
- Add grated cheese to the sauce and stir until melted.
- In a flat baking dish, spread 2 to 3 cups of cooked rice evenly.
- Layer sliced cooked chicken and mushrooms over the rice.
- Pour the cream sauce over the layered ingredients.
- Top with additional grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed garlic or onions to the sauce. For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you're short on time, try using jarred mushrooms instead of canned. This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Tavern Style dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting touch, consider offering a side of mashed potatoes. It’s a satisfying option for family dinners or gatherings, and is reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from burning and heat at 350°F until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to stir occasionally for even heating. For best results, avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Tavern Style contains roughly 430 calories, with 12g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (128% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value), and calcium (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1679mg per serving (73% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked chicken; just ensure it's fully thawed and heated through before layering it in the dish. This helps maintain the dish's texture and ensures even cooking. For best results, add it to the sauce while cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
A mild cheese like mozzarella or cheddar works best, as it melts well and adds creaminess to the sauce. If you prefer a stronger flavor, consider using a sharp cheddar or Gruyère. Feel free to mix cheeses to create a more complex taste that complements the dish.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli. You can also use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. The creamy sauce will still provide a rich, satisfying flavor, making it a delicious vegetarian option.
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).