Baked Chicken And Macaroni
Creamy baked chicken and macaroni dish with mushrooms, water chestnuts, and cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine milk and cream of mushroom soup in a bowl.
- Add cooked chicken, cooked elbow macaroni, sliced water chestnuts, grated cheese, chopped onion, and 3 hard-cooked eggs to the mixture.
- Mix well and refrigerate overnight, tightly covered.
- Before serving, sprinkle chopped parsley on top and add pimento if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or using half-and-half instead of regular milk. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options if needed. If you want extra flavor, try adding some garlic powder or using a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella. Using rotisserie chicken can save time and enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Orange, Grape And Chicken Salad for a light side. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or roasted potatoes. This dish can also be a great potluck option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Baked Chicken and Macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture and heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken And Macaroni contains roughly 1425 calories, with 44g protein, 236g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (235% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2101mg per serving (91% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just bake it when you're ready to serve, which makes it a great dish for gatherings or busy weeknights.
Can I use different proteins in this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cooked chicken with cooked turkey or even diced ham. For a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or tofu as a protein alternative, while keeping the other ingredients intact.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Baked Chicken and Macaroni. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.
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).