Sherry Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole featuring tender breasts in a creamy sherry mushroom sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except the chicken breasts in a bowl. If desired, add 1/2 cup milk to thin the mixture.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking pan.
- Pour the prepared mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle with paprika on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter dish, consider using skinless chicken breasts and low-sodium cream of mushroom soup. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can substitute the sherry with white wine or chicken broth if preferred. To thicken the sauce, incorporate a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with water.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sherry Casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Christmas Rice, adding a festive touch to your meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sherry Casserole contains roughly 316 calories, with 26g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), iron (48% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1082mg per serving (47% 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 other types of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted to use turkey or even pork. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted according to the thickness of the meat to ensure it's fully cooked. Cooking times may vary, so always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find the sauce too thick after baking, you can easily loosen it by stirring in a little bit of chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency. Adding a splash of sherry can also enhance the flavor while thinning it out 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).