Aunt Bonnie'S Chicken Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole with mushrooms, green peppers, and almonds, baked to perfection. Rich, savory, and flavorful, ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pan, melt margarine over the stove and blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually stir in milk and then add chicken broth, mixing well.
- Heat the mixture to almost boiling and simmer until thickened.
- Chop pimento, mushrooms, and green pepper finely together and add to the mixture.
- Add the whole chickens, rice, almonds, and remaining ingredients to the mixture.
- Pour into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish and a 10 x 8-inch dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamy texture, use heavy cream instead of milk. If you want to add more flavor, consider using garlic powder or onion powder along with the pepper and salt. You can substitute whole chickens with chicken thighs or breasts for quicker cooking. Adding a can of drained corn can provide a nice sweetness to balance the dish. This recipe is a great way to use leftovers from dishes like Mom'S Chicken Wings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Fried Stuffing or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a comforting side like mac and cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Bonnie'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 16 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just prepare it as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate before baking. When you're ready to bake it, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of rice?
If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, quinoa or cauliflower rice can work well in this casserole. For a heartier option, consider using orzo or even pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the chosen grain to ensure everything is cooked properly.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until heated through.
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).