How to Make Creamy Tarragon Chicken Casserole

Wholesome, Comforting, and Bursting with Flavor

Learn how to make Creamy Tarragon Chicken Casserole with this easy, step-by-step recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this dish combines tender chicken, fragrant tarragon, and a velvety sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Tarragon Chicken Casserole

There’s something magical about a good casserole — it’s warm, satisfying, and makes your home smell incredible while it bakes. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple to prepare and impressive to serve, this Creamy Tarragon Chicken Casserole is your answer.

The subtle licorice-like flavor of fresh tarragon pairs beautifully with tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is bound to become a favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients to create this delicious, hearty casserole:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 200g mushrooms, sliced

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 tsp dried tarragon)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup grated cheese (Gruyère or cheddar works well)

• 1 cup cooked rice or pasta (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through the recipe!

1. Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Brown the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they’re golden brown on all sides. Don’t worry about cooking them through — they’ll finish in the oven!

3. Cook the Mushrooms

Toss in the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and turn golden. This step adds a lovely umami depth to the casserole.

4. Make the Creamy Tarragon Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and fresh tarragon. Let everything bubble gently for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the chicken and sauce mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like a crispy top, broil for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Tarragon Chicken Casserole is versatile and pairs well with various sides:

• Fluffy white rice or wild rice

• Buttered noodles or pasta

• Roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad

• Crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce

Tips for the Best Creamy Tarragon Chicken Casserole

• Use fresh tarragon for the best flavor, but dried works in a pinch.

• Add extra veggies like spinach, peas, or asparagus for a nutritional boost.

• Meal prep friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready to eat!

• Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or light cream.

Why Tarragon Is the Star of the Show

If you haven’t cooked much with tarragon, this recipe is the perfect introduction. Its delicate, anise-like taste brings an elegant twist to the creamy sauce, making the dish feel more sophisticated without any extra effort. Plus, tarragon is packed with antioxidants and can aid digestion — a win-win for your health and your taste buds!

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freeze: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until heated through, or microwave in short bursts.

Final Thoughts: A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist

This Creamy Tarragon Chicken Casserole is a true comfort food classic, but the addition of fragrant tarragon takes it to another level. It’s the kind of dish you’ll turn to again and again — perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, a Sunday family meal, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below! What side dishes did you pair it with? Did you add your own twist? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Happy cooking!