Ann'S Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole combining tender chicken, rice, crunchy water chestnuts, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with bread crumbs and butter for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, chopped celery, chopped onion, mayonnaise, cream of mushroom soup, chopped water chestnuts, lemon juice, and cooked rice. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar, to the mixture before baking. If you don't have water chestnuts, chopped bell peppers or carrots can provide a nice crunch instead. Adjust the lemon juice to taste, depending on how tangy you prefer. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a comforting choice.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread or rolls to soak up any extra sauce. For a twist, consider serving with a side of Corn Bread And Sausage Stuffing for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes on high.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ann'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1405 calories, with 24g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 83g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1776mg per serving (77% 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 uncooked rice in this casserole?
It's best to use cooked rice for this recipe, as it ensures even cooking and a proper texture. If you prefer to use uncooked rice, you would need to adjust the liquid content and cooking time significantly, which could alter the final outcome.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise in this casserole. It will add creaminess while reducing calories. Alternatively, sour cream or a vegan mayonnaise can also work well.
Can I freeze this chicken casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken casserole before baking. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient meal option for busy nights.
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).