Name: Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 lb shredded chicken breast (Use pre-cooked chicken for faster prep.); 6 oz cooked and chopped bacon (Can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.); 3 cups frozen hash browns (Freshly shredded potatoes can be used but need extra prep.); 2 crowns broccoli florets (Substitute with spinach or green beans if desired.); 1 diced white onion (Yellow onion works as a viable alternative.); 1 cup sliced mushrooms (Consider other mushrooms or omit if you prefer.); 1 can coconut cream (Almond milk can be a lower-calorie substitute.); 1 cup chicken broth (Switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.); 1/2 cup almond milk (Coconut milk can be used for an intensified coconut note.); 2 tbsp ghee (Olive oil can work as a dairy-free option.); 3 tbsp Dijon mustard (Make sure it’s Whole30 and sugar-free.); 2 tbsp arrowroot flour (Cornstarch can serve as an alternative.); spices (thyme, parsley, rosemary, salt) (Enhance flavors; feel free to adjust according to taste.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the delightful scent of savory Dijon enveloped me, making it clear that dinner was going to be something special. Enter the Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole—a comforting dish that marries wholesome ingredients with mouthwatering flavors. Quick to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight, this casserole not only brings satisfaction to your family but also embraces your healthy eating goals with its Whole30 and Paleo-friendly ingredients. Just imagine crispy bacon mingling with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, dairy-free cream sauce. The best part? It’s an easy meal prep solution that keeps well for leftovers, ensuring that you can savor this goodness again tomorrow. Are you ready to whisk up a comforting masterpiece that elevates your home dining experience? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why is this casserole a must-try?

Simplicity: This Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole requires minimal prep and just a few steps, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Flavor Explosion: With savory Dijon, crispy bacon, and hearty veggies, each bite boasts a robust taste that everyone will rave about.

Versatility: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or spinach, to make it uniquely yours!

Meal Prep Friendly: It’s an ideal make-ahead option, easily stored in the fridge for up to two days, so you can enjoy delicious leftovers.

Health-Conscious: Crafted with Whole30 and Paleo ingredients, this casserole keeps your dietary goals in check while satisfying your cravings.

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this flavorful dish, and if you’re on the lookout for other easy meals, check out my Avocado Chicken Salad or Salsa Verde Chicken.

Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 lb. shredded chicken breast – Main protein source; use pre-cooked chicken for faster prep.
6 oz. cooked and chopped bacon – Adds smokiness and depth of flavor; can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
3 cups frozen hash browns (or shredded potatoes) – Provides heartiness and texture; freshly shredded potatoes can be used but need extra prep.
2 crowns broccoli florets (about 2 heaping cups) – Nutrient-dense veggie enhancing color and health; substitute with spinach or green beans if desired.
1 diced white onion (1.5 cups) – Adds a wonderful aroma and sweetness; yellow onion works as a viable alternative.
1 cup sliced mushrooms – Elevates umami flavor and savory profile; consider other mushrooms or omit if you prefer.

For the Sauce

1 can coconut cream – Delivers creaminess without dairy; almond milk can be a lower-calorie substitute.
1 cup chicken broth – Infuses depth of flavor; switch to vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
1/2 cup almond milk – Increases creaminess; coconut milk can be used for an intensified coconut note.
2 tbsp ghee – Acts as the cooking fat, adding richness; olive oil can work as a dairy-free option.
3 tbsp Dijon mustard – Essential for that signature flavor; make sure it’s Whole30 and sugar-free.
2 tbsp arrowroot flour – Natural thickener that’s gluten-free; cornstarch can serve as an alternative.
Spices (thyme, parsley, rosemary, salt) – Enhance flavors; feel free to adjust according to taste.

Dive into preparing this Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole, and embrace cozy, wholesome cooking that your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the baking magic to happen. This temperature allows the flavors to meld beautifully while helping the casserole achieve that golden, bubbly top. A hot oven is key to the creamy, comforting texture of the Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole.

Step 2: Combine the Casserole Ingredients
In a large casserole dish, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, frozen hash browns, broccoli florets, diced onion, and sliced mushrooms. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed. The contrasting textures of the hearty hash browns and tender vegetables will create a delightful base for your casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute. This step builds a flavorful foundation for the sauce. Add in the coconut cream, chicken broth, almond milk, Dijon mustard, and your choice of spices, stirring everything to combine smoothly for the rich sauce.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
As the sauce simmers for about 2-3 minutes, dissolve 2 tablespoons of arrowroot flour in a splash of water to create a slurry. Gradually add this mixture to the sauce, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens; it should take about 3-5 minutes. This will give your Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole the luscious, creamy consistency everyone loves.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the thickened sauce evenly over the casserole mixture in the dish. Gently stir everything to fully coat all the ingredients with the creamy Dijon sauce. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. Smooth out the top with a spatula for an even bake and visual appeal.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Transfer your assembled casserole into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour. Keep an eye on it towards the end; you’re looking for a golden, bubbly top that signals doneness. The aroma will fill your kitchen, a delightful hint of what’s to come as the ingredients meld together beautifully.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to portion. Serve it warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors that will make this dish a new family favorite!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer: The casserole can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. This is a great option for busy weeknights!

Reheating: When reheating frozen servings, heat in the oven at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes, covered with foil to maintain moisture. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this delicious casserole again!

What to Serve with Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole

Transform your meal into a feast with these delightful side options that perfectly complement this creamy dish.

Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens with a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast, balancing the casserole’s creaminess. Add cherry tomatoes and cucumber for extra pop!
Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasted to tender perfection with a hint of garlic, this side adds a delicious depth and keeps your plate colorful and nutritious.
Sweet Potato Wedges: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes brings a comforting sweetness, making them an irresistible pairing with the savory casserole. Season with rosemary for added flavor!
Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, they soak up any extra sauce and offer a delightful texture. Toss them in olive oil and garlic for a burst of flavor.
Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic low-carb option, cauliflower rice serves as a neutral base that complements the richness of the casserole beautifully. Top with fresh herbs for brightness.
Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay brings a crisp, fruity layer to your meal, enhancing the flavors of the Dijon mustard in the casserole perfectly.

Enjoy crafting a complete dining experience that turns your weeknight dinners into memorable moments with these delightful additions!

Helpful Tricks for Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole

Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: Streamline your prep time by using shredded rotisserie chicken to make your Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole an even quicker weeknight dinner.
Check Arrowroot Flour: Make sure the arrowroot flour is completely dissolved in water before adding it to the sauce to avoid any clumps—smooth sauce is key!
Experiment with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, for a personalized twist that keeps your casserole fresh and exciting.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your casserole towards the end of baking; you’re aiming for a golden top that indicates it’s perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes after baking so it can set properly—this will make serving easier and more beautiful!

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance; just assemble the ingredients in your baking dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. To maintain the quality, ensure the casserole is well-sealed to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, and follow the usual baking instructions, baking it at 400°F for about 1 hour. This way, you can enjoy a delightful, wholesome dinner on busy weeknights with minimal effort.

Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring these delightful twists and substitutions!

Veggie Boost: Add any veggies like bell peppers, kale, or zucchini for additional nutrition and color. Each vegetable brings its own unique flavor, making your casserole a vibrant and satisfying meal.
Meat Swap: Use turkey or sausage instead of chicken to create a different flavor profile. These meats will add a savory richness that perfectly complements the Dijon mustard.
Dairy-Free Creaminess: Replace coconut cream with cashew cream for a non-coconut alternative that stays rich and creamy. The result? A dreamy sauce that maintains that luscious texture!
Hash Brown Variety: Swap traditional hash browns for sweet potato hash for a sweet and savory twist. This substitution offers added depth and nutrition, elevating the comforting classic.
Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This may awaken your taste buds and give your casserole a delightful zing!
Herb Infusion: Play around with herbs! Fresh basil or cilantro can uplift your dish with aromatic and fresh flavors. Mix in right before serving for the best impact.
Nut-Free Option: Use oat milk instead of almond milk for a nut-free choice. The slight creaminess will still work wonders in your casserole without any nut concerns.
Garnish Ideas: Top with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions before serving for added crunch and colorful presentation. Garnishing brings not only flavor but also a lovely finish to the dish.

If you’re still craving something delicious, consider trying my savory Marsala Chicken Orzo for a comforting meal that the family will adore!

Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for the casserole?
Absolutely! For the Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole, using pre-cooked shredded chicken, like rotisserie chicken, not only saves time but also adds incredible flavor. If you’re cooking chicken from scratch, opt for boneless chicken breasts or thighs, as they will keep the dish moist and tender. Aim for chicken that’s cooked just until it’s no longer pink; overcooking can lead to dryness.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat them, you can either use a microwave or an oven to warm them up. Just make sure to cover your dish to prevent it from drying out while reheating. Enjoying leftovers makes quick meals even easier!

Can I freeze the Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole?
Yes, you can! To freeze, prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it as directed. This makes for a convenient meal prep option!

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is thicker than desired, don’t worry! Just stir in a little bit of warm chicken broth or almond milk, adding it gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. It’s best to do this while the sauce is on low heat to help it combine smoothly without clumping.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! The Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole is already Whole30, Paleo, and gluten-free, making it a perfect fit for many dietary preferences. However, if you have specific allergies, like nut allergies, be cautious when using almond milk. You can substitute with oat milk or coconut milk—both are dairy-free and flavorful options!

How long does the casserole stay fresh in the fridge before cooking?
You can prepare the casserole up to 2 days in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This makes it easy to pull together meals during busy weeks while still enjoying the delicious flavors of your Creamy Dijon Chicken Casserole!