Betty'S Chicken Casserole
Creamy, cheesy chicken casserole with tender pasta, vegetables, and savory broth, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks with rich flavors and hearty texture.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, cubed ⓘ
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup or mushroom soup ⓘ
- 1 can milk ⓘ
- 1 (14 1/2 oz.) can chicken broth ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/4 green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 small onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 (5 oz.) can drained water chestnuts ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix the cooked chicken, uncooked elbow macaroni, cream of chicken or mushroom soup, milk, chicken broth, shredded Cheddar cheese, salt, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, and drained water chestnuts together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a well-greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Refrigerate overnight if desired.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option. If you want to add more veggies, diced carrots or peas work well. For a different flavor profile, try using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. This dish is also a great way to use up leftover boiled chicken.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it with a side of Tina's Chicken or a bowl of No Beans About It Chili for a heartier feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. If the casserole seems dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or milk before reheating to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 732 calories, with 29g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (66% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2406mg per serving (105% 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 rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just make sure to shred or cube the chicken before mixing it with the other ingredients. It’s a perfect shortcut and can make meal prep easier.
Can I freeze the chicken casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It’s a convenient way to have a homemade meal ready to go.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your chicken casserole, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar for a spicy twist. Adjust the amount to your heat preference for the perfect kick!
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).