How to Make Tasty Chicken Gloria

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Gloria is the epitome of comfort food. The tender chicken breasts are perfectly complemented by the earthy flavor of cremini mushrooms, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the rich, creamy Muenster cheese. The cream sauce adds a touch of sophistication, making this dish perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave a rich and satisfying meal. It’s easy to prepare, and the result is a mouthwatering casserole that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (8 ounces each)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For the Sauce and Vegetables

• 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium or 1/2 large sweet onion, cut into strips
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for sauce)
• 1 cup chicken stock
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream

For Topping

• 8 ounces Muenster cheese, sliced

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Butterfly each chicken breast half and cut each into two pieces, yielding eight 4-ounce pieces.
2. Season the Flour: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of flour with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken piece in the seasoned flour and set aside.
3. Preheat the Oven: Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray and set aside. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. Dredge the Chicken: Dredge the chicken pieces a second time in the same flour mixture and set aside. Discard the used flour afterward.
5. Pan-Fry the Chicken: In a large sauté pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown four chicken pieces for 2–3 minutes per side and transfer them to the casserole dish. Repeat with the remaining chicken using 4 more tablespoons of butter and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
6. Cook the Mushrooms: Discard the used fat and wipe the pan clean. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter with 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until browned, about 5–8 minutes. Spread the mushrooms over the chicken in the casserole dish.
7. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add the remaining butter and oil. Sauté the onions for 3 minutes over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
8. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 2 minutes. Add the chicken stock and stir, cooking for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 2 more minutes until smooth and heated through.
10. Assemble and Bake: Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the casserole dish. Top with Muenster cheese slices. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Cheese: Swap Muenster cheese with Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone for a different flavor and melt.
• Add Vegetables: Add spinach, peas, or bell peppers to the casserole for additional color and flavor.
• Low-Fat Version: Use low-fat cream cheese or substitute heavy cream with a lighter option, though it may affect the texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover Chicken Gloria in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, add about 10–15 extra minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.

2. Can I use skinless chicken thighs instead?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe and add extra moisture to the dish.

3. Can I use a different kind of mushroom?

Yes, you can use button mushrooms or portobello mushrooms as alternatives to cremini mushrooms.

4. Is there a non-dairy substitute for the heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream, cashew cream, or any plant-based cream substitute for a dairy-free version, though it will slightly change the flavor.

5. Can I freeze Chicken Gloria?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 50 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.

6. What can I serve with Chicken Gloria?

This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

7. Can I use different cheese for the topping?

Yes, feel free to use other cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, or cheddar depending on your flavor preference.

8. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the chicken should be fully cooked through and no longer pink inside.

9. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more flour or let the sauce cook longer to reduce it to your desired consistency.

10. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken may affect the texture and cook time.

Conclusion

Chicken Gloria is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special celebrations. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and savory mushrooms creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With a little prep and simple ingredients, you can create a truly delicious and hearty dish that’s sure to be a favorite at your dinner table!

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