Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

An easy and very tasty casserole dinner, the Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus features tender chicken and fresh asparagus enveloped in a cheesy Dijon and lemon cream sauce. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 50 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken, asparagus, and a creamy sauce creates an irresistible taste that will please everyone at the table.
• Versatile Dish: Whether served as a main course or alongside a fresh salad, this bake fits any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and tender chicken, even picky eaters are likely to enjoy this meal.
• Leftover Friendly: This dish makes great leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day or a quick heat-and-eat dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet or large skillet
• Casserole dish
• Microwave-safe dish
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet or large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and vegetables evenly.
• Casserole dish: Perfectly holds all the ingredients together while baking for an even finish.
• Microwave-safe dish: Great for steaming asparagus quickly without losing nutrients.

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Ingredients

An easy and very tasty casserole dinner! With tender chicken and asparagus in a cheesy dijon and lemon cream sauce – you are gonna love it.

For the Chicken

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 pieces)

For the Asparagus

• 1 pound asparagus (cut into 1 to 2 pieces then steamed)

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup onion (chopped)
• 8 ounces mushrooms (sliced)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (I used an avocado oil mayonnaise)
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Topping

• 1½ cups shredded gouda or swiss cheese (reserve ¼ cup parmesan for the top)
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese (reserve ¼ cup parmesan for the top)

How to Make Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Asparagus

• Place asparagus pieces in a microwave-safe dish with ¼ cup water.
• Cover and steam for about 3 minutes or until tender.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a cast iron skillet:
1. Melt butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken pieces; cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until browned on one side.
3. Turn chicken over; continue cooking until fully cooked through, about another 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble Casserole Base

1. Remove chicken from skillet and place it in a greased casserole dish.
2. Top with steamed asparagus; cover to keep warm.

Step 5: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms

In the same skillet:
1. Add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms; sauté until tender.

Step 6: Create the Cream Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium; add chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, thyme, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
2. Whisk together thoroughly; bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 7: Thicken Sauce

Cook stirring frequently until sauce reduces slightly and thickens; this should take about 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and asparagus in the casserole dish. Stir in gouda or Swiss cheese until well combined.

Step 9: Bake

Sprinkle remaining cheeses on top of casserole. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and chicken is done.

This delightful Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus is not only delicious but also easy to prepare—perfect for any night of the week! Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

Serving your Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative suggestions to make it even more delicious.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.

Serve Over Rice or Quinoa

• Spoon the creamy chicken bake over fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa for a filling and satisfying meal.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the dish.

Accompany with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini add color and extra nutrients to your meal while enhancing its flavor profile.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

To achieve the best results with your Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh asparagus: Fresh asparagus adds vibrant flavor and texture compared to frozen options.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before baking to ensure a well-seasoned dish.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a unique twist on flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus with sides can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and a nutritious balance.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair wonderfully with the rich casserole.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up flavors beautifully.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a pop of sweetness to your plate.
5. Zucchini Noodles: A fresh and healthy option that complements the dish without overpowering it.
6. Simple Couscous Salad: Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs can be a refreshing side that enhances your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a creamy chicken bake, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for perfect tenderness.
• Ignoring the Asparagus Texture: If asparagus is overcooked, it becomes mushy. Steam it just until tender, not too long.
• Skipping the Cheese Blend: Only using one type of cheese can affect flavor depth. Opt for a mix of gouda or swiss with parmesan for a richer taste.
• Not Tasting the Sauce: Failing to taste your sauce can lead to blandness. Always adjust seasoning before pouring over your dish.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold cream can cause the sauce to separate. Allow ingredients to reach room temperature for seamless mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts on medium power, stirring between intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the creamy chicken bake recipe:

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap asparagus with broccoli, green beans, or spinach based on your preference.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a mixture of milk and cornstarch as a lighter alternative.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This creamy chicken bake is great for meal prep as it stores well and reheats nicely.

How do I enhance the flavor of the sauce?

Adding garlic or fresh herbs like parsley can elevate the sauce’s flavor profile beautifully.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You could use dairy-free cheese options and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative.

Final Thoughts

This creamy chicken bake recipe with asparagus is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding various vegetables or adjusting the cheese blend according to your taste. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s perfect for family dinners!