5 Can Casserole
A comforting and creamy casserole combining chicken, noodles, and savory soups, topped with crunchy potato chips for added texture. Perfect for a quick family dinner or potluck, this dish offers rich flavors with minimal prep, making it an easy and satisfying meal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the boned chicken, evaporated milk, chow mein noodles, cream of chicken soup, and cream of celery soup in a bowl; mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Top with crushed potato chips.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating some diced onions or garlic into the mixture. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute the evaporated milk with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative. You can also use tuna in place of boned chicken for a different protein option. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before baking to enhance the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This 5 Can Casserole is hearty enough to serve as a standalone dish but pairs nicely with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also enjoy it alongside garlic bread for a comforting touch. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Ken'S Beans to complement the flavors of this dish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 5 Can Casserole contains roughly 1169 calories, with 22g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and potassium (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1258mg per serving (55% 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 fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded fresh chicken in place of the canned boned chicken. Just ensure it's fully cooked and seasoned before mixing it into the casserole. This will add a fresher taste and texture to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the canned chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas. You can also replace the cream soups with a homemade version using vegetable broth and a thickener like cornstarch or flour, ensuring it remains creamy and flavorful.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble the ingredients and cover tightly before refrigerating. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).