Ala Mary Chicken
A creamy chicken casserole with a savory mushroom and pimento topping, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks, blending rich flavors with a crispy crumb crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped green onions in margarine.
- Toss the dressing well.
- Add poultry seasoning to the mixture.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish.
- Place half of the crumbs on the bottom of the dish.
- Spread the diced cooked chicken over the crumbs.
- Mix together sour cream, mushroom soup, mushrooms with liquid, and pimento strips.
- Pour this mixture over the chicken.
- Cover with the remaining half of the crumbs.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the margarine with butter or olive oil. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you prefer a healthier option, swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt. To enhance the dish, add some garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary when sautéing the onions. This dish is a great way to use up extra vegetables too, such as bell peppers or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ala Mary Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cousin Glen's Hamburger Corn Bake for a hearty feast. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside fluffy rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce. A glass of white wine can also complement this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture. This dish can be frozen for longer storage; just ensure it’s well-sealed before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ala Mary Chicken contains roughly 566 calories, with 11g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (96% of the Daily Value), calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 607mg per serving (26% 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 mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh mushrooms! Sauté them in the margarine with the onions until they're tender before adding them to the dish. Fresh mushrooms will add a more robust flavor and texture to the recipe. Just make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Use vegetable broth instead of the chicken broth if desired. The creamy sauce will still work wonderfully with the vegetables, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and cook as directed. This makes it a convenient option for entertaining or busy weeknights, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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).