Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

An easy and very tasty casserole dinner awaits you with this Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus. This dish features tender chicken and asparagus enveloped in a cheesy Dijon and lemon cream sauce, making it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress your guests or satisfy your family’s cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The creamy Dijon and lemon sauce elevates the chicken and asparagus, creating a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out cheeses.
• Comfort Food Classic: This creamy casserole provides the warmth and comfort that everyone loves in home-cooked meals.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from chicken and nutrients from asparagus, this dish supports a balanced diet without compromising flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Casserole dish
• Microwave-safe dish
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients evenly, ensuring they cook perfectly before combining them into the casserole.
• Casserole dish: Essential for baking the dish evenly while allowing all flavors to meld together beautifully.

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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 Bake

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 pieces)
• 1 pound asparagus (cut into 1 to 2 pieces then steamed)
• 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
• 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 so it’s ready when you need to bake your casserole.

Step 2: Steam 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 once done.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet:
* Melt butter over medium-high heat.
* Add chicken pieces; cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to brown.
* Flip the chicken over; continue cooking until thoroughly done, around another 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble in Casserole Dish

Remove cooked chicken from skillet:
* Place it in a greased casserole dish.
* Top with steamed asparagus, cover it, and keep warm.

Step 5: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms

Return to the skillet:
* Add onions and mushrooms; sauté until they are tender.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Sauce

Reduce heat to medium:
* Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, thyme, dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and lemon juice.
* Whisk together thoroughly; bring to a simmer.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Continue cooking:
* Stir frequently until sauce reduces slightly and thickens—approximately 8 to 10 minutes.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and asparagus:
* Stir in shredded cheeses until well combined.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden Brown

Sprinkle remaining cheeses over the top of your casserole:
* Bake for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

This creamy chicken bake is a delightful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing make a classic pairing that balances the dish’s flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted slices spread with garlic butter add a savory touch and are great for soaking up the sauce.
• French Baguette: Freshly baked baguette slices can be served alongside for a crunchy contrast.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Lemon Herb Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with lemon zest and herbs enhances the dish while adding a refreshing taste.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf with vegetables can provide extra texture and nutrition.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

To ensure your creamy chicken bake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh asparagus and chicken will yield better flavor and texture than frozen alternatives.
• Sauté Properly: Make sure to sauté the onions and mushrooms until they are golden brown to enhance their sweetness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your sauce before pouring it over the casserole; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink for tender pieces that won’t dry out in the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

Pairing side dishes with your creamy chicken bake can elevate your meal. Here are some ideas that work wonderfully together.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while keeping things light.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side that pairs well with the casserole’s sauce.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn provides a delightful crunch and is easy to prepare in summer months.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance out the creaminess of the dish with its crisp texture.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet potatoes offer a nutritious side that complements savory flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken – Ensure you cook the chicken just until it’s done. Overcooked chicken can become dry. Monitor its internal temperature and remove it from heat once it reaches 165°F.
• Neglecting to steam asparagus – Steaming the asparagus before adding it to the casserole helps retain its vibrant color and crunch. Don’t skip this step; it makes a big difference in texture.
• Skipping the sauce reduction – Allowing the sauce to simmer until thickened adds depth of flavor. If you don’t reduce it enough, you may end up with a watery dish. Be patient during this step.
• Using low-quality cheese – The cheese is crucial for creaminess and flavor in this recipe. Opt for high-quality gouda or swiss cheese for the best results.
• Not letting it rest after baking – After baking, let your creamy chicken bake rest for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the dish with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in increments of 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop – In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and reheat covered, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus:

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers depending on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This creamy chicken bake is perfect for meal prep as it stores well in both fridge and freezer.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can use reduced-fat cream and cheese options if you’re looking for a lighter version of this creamy dish.

What can I serve with this dish?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or cheddar for varied flavors!

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Chicken Bake Recipe with Asparagus is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting different cheeses. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try today!