Blanche'S Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole with a creamy Velveeta cheese sauce, topped with crunchy Ritz crackers, perfect for family dinners and versatile enough for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked, deboned chicken, chicken broth, crushed Ritz crackers (reserve 1 cup), Velveeta cheese, well beaten eggs, chopped celery, chopped onion, and mushroom soup in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed Ritz crackers evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is browned.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken mixture. For a lighter version, substitute half of the Velveeta cheese with reduced-fat cheese. If you prefer a crunchier topping, mix the reserved Ritz crackers with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling them on top. This casserole can also be customized with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Country Biscuits And Chicken for a comforting family dinner. For added flavor, consider serving with a side of cranberry sauce or a tangy dipping sauce to complement the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blanche'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1061 calories, with 22g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1225mg per serving (53% 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 chicken for this casserole?
While it's possible to use uncooked chicken, it will require a longer baking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. If you choose this method, be sure to increase the baking time to at least 40-50 minutes and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade cream sauce or a can of cream of chicken soup. You can also use vegetable broth with some flour and milk to create a similar creamy texture without mushrooms.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers instead of Ritz crackers. Additionally, ensure that the chicken broth and mushroom soup are labeled gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish. This allows everyone to enjoy this comforting casserole without dietary concerns.
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).