Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole

Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole Recipe from Switzerland

Region / culture: Switzerland | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special brunch. This casserole is packed with protein from the eggs and chicken, and the creamy cheese sauce adds a rich and savory flavor. The buttery rye bread on top adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy filling perfectly.

History

The origins of Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole are not well-documented, but it is likely that this dish has its roots in traditional European cuisine. Gruyère cheese is a Swiss cheese that is known for its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, and it pairs perfectly with chicken and eggs. This casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

1 cup white onion, sliced
1 tbsp butter
8 hard-cooked eggs
2 cups shredded gruyère cheese
1 can cream of chicken soup
0.75 cup milk
1 tsp prepared mustard
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp dill weed
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
6 slices rye bread, buttered and cut diagonally into 4 pieces

How to prepare

Cook and stir the onion in butter until it becomes tender, then spread it in an ungreased rectangular baking dish.
Top with slices of egg and sprinkle with cheese.
Beat the remaining ingredients except for the bread.
Pour the soup mixture over the cheese, then overlap the bread slices with the buttered side facing up on top of the casserole.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 35 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onions until they are tender before adding them to the casserole. This will help to bring out their sweet and savory flavor.

- You can use any type of cooked chicken in this recipe, such as rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken.

- Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of cheese you prefer in place of Gruyère.

- Use gluten-free bread in place of rye bread for a gluten-free version of this casserole.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole is a good source of calcium, vitamin D, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and wheat (rye bread).

Summary

Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole is a balanced meal that is rich in protein and calcium. It is a satisfying and delicious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special brunch.

Summary

Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special brunch. This casserole is packed with protein, creamy cheese sauce, and buttery rye bread, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that my grandmother had passed down to me. As I shuffled through yellowed index cards and torn out magazine pages, my eyes fell upon a faded piece of paper with the words "Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole" scrawled across the top in elegant cursive handwriting.

I was intrigued. I had never heard of such a dish before, and the combination of chicken, eggs, and Gruyère cheese seemed both comforting and decadent. I knew I had to try it.

I carefully read through the recipe, taking note of the ingredients and instructions. It called for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, eggs, Gruyère cheese, breadcrumbs, butter, and a few other simple ingredients. The preparation seemed straightforward, but the end result promised to be a delicious and satisfying meal.

As I gathered the ingredients and began to cook, I couldn't help but think about the history behind this recipe. Where had it come from? Who had originally created it? I imagined a French grandmother, passed down from generation to generation, perfecting the dish and adding her own special touch to make it truly unique.

The smell of the chicken cooking in the oven mingled with the rich aroma of the Gruyère cheese, creating a mouthwatering scent that filled my kitchen. I could hardly wait for the casserole to finish baking so that I could finally taste the fruits of my labor.

When the timer finally dinged, I carefully removed the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. The cheese had melted into a golden-brown crust on top, and the chicken was tender and juicy. I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before.

The creamy Gruyère cheese paired perfectly with the savory chicken and the rich, velvety eggs. The breadcrumbs added a satisfying crunch, while the butter lent a smooth and decadent finish. Each bite was a symphony of flavors that danced across my taste buds and left me craving more.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would make for special occasions and family gatherings. It was a dish that brought people together, that warmed the soul and nourished the body. It was a dish that spoke of tradition and history, of love and care.

As I finished my meal, I couldn't help but smile. I had stumbled upon a hidden gem, a treasure trove of flavors and memories that had been waiting for me to discover. And for that, I was grateful.

So here I am, years later, still making my grandmother's Gruyère Chicken and Egg Casserole. It has become a beloved recipe in my family, a dish that is greeted with smiles and satisfied sighs every time I serve it. And as I watch my grandchildren take their first bites, I can't help but wonder if one day they will stumble upon this recipe in an old box of mine and carry on the tradition.

For now, though, I am content to savor each bite of this delicious casserole and bask in the memories of that hot summer day when I first discovered it. It is a memory that I will carry with me always, a reminder of the power of food to bring joy and connection to our lives. And for that, I am truly grateful.