3 Cheese Chicken Bake
Indulge in this creamy and cheesy 3 Cheese Chicken Bake, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Layers of tender lasagna noodles, savory chicken, and a blend of rich cheeses create a comforting dish that satisfies every palate. Ideal for those looking for a hearty and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. lasagna noodles ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped green pepper
- 3 Tbsp. margarine ⓘ
- 1 can cream of chicken soup ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. basil ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped pimento, drained ⓘ
- 1/3 c. milk ⓘ
- 1/2 c. cottage cheese ⓘ
- 2 c. diced, cooked chicken ⓘ
- 2 c. shredded cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 c. Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook and drain lasagna noodles.
- Cook chopped onion and green pepper in margarine until tender.
- Stir in cream of chicken soup, mushrooms, pimento, milk, and basil.
- Layer half of the noodles in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Top with half of the sauce, half of the cottage cheese, half of the chicken, and half of both cheeses. Repeat layers.
- Bake at 350° for 45 minutes.
- If casserole comes from the fridge, add 15 minutes to baking time.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using different types of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar. If you're short on time, pre-cooked chicken can be used as a shortcut. You can also substitute the green pepper with spinach for a different taste. Adjust the seasonings according to your preference, and feel free to add more vegetables to enhance nutrition. This recipe can be a great base for variations like Chicken Vegetable Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious casserole with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus. You can also offer a variety of sauces, such as marinara or a creamy garlic sauce, for drizzling on top. For a comforting family dinner, consider pairing it with Chicken Delight or other popular American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover 3 Cheese Chicken Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. For quicker options, microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture. You may want to add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Cheese Chicken Bake contains roughly 486 calories, with 14g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (100% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (39% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 928mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses according to your preference. Mozzarella, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses can enhance the flavor. Just ensure you have a total of 2 cups of shredded cheese for the best results. Experimenting with different cheeses can lead to delicious variations.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the 3 Cheese Chicken Bake ahead of time. Assemble the layers in the pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add an extra 15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
Using uncooked chicken isn't recommended since the baking time may not ensure it cooks thoroughly. It's best to use pre-cooked chicken to maintain safety and achieve the desired texture. You can shred rotisserie chicken or use leftovers from previous meals for convenience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).