Almond Chicken Casserole
Almond Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish combining tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and savory cream of mushroom soup, all topped with Chinese noodles. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors with a hint of added vegetables for nutrition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix cooked chicken, diced celery, cream of mushroom soup, grated onion, Worcestershire sauce, broth or water, and pieces of pimento in a large bowl.
- Add Chinese noodles and mix well, saving some noodles for topping if desired.
- Optional: Stir in a vegetable of your choice such as beans, peas, corn, or mixed vegetables.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle slivered almonds and remaining Chinese noodles on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you're out of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with homemade mushroom sauce or any creamy soup you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, like peas or corn, to enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Almond Chicken Casserole is perfect for a hearty family meal and pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For added flavor, serve with a side of garlic bread or over a bed of fluffy rice. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or gatherings, showcasing the delightful combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Chicken Casserole contains roughly 778 calories, with 24g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1049mg per serving (46% 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 leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this casserole, giving it a delicious flavor. Make sure to use the same amount of cooked turkey as the chicken specified in the recipe to maintain the balance of ingredients.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I use instead of Chinese noodles?
If you don't have Chinese noodles on hand, you can substitute them with any pasta you prefer, such as egg noodles or rotini. Just ensure to cook the pasta according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole for the best texture.
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).