Calico Chicken Casserole
Creamy and hearty, Calico Chicken Casserole combines tender chicken, vegetables, noodles, cheese, and a savory mushroom soup base, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute celery, green peppers, and onion in 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add tomatoes, cooked chicken, and cooked egg noodles to the skillet.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Spoon the mixture into a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake in a 375°F oven for 20 minutes; top with slivered almonds if desired.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or milk when mixing in the cream of mushroom soup. You can substitute the egg noodles with rice for a different texture, which pairs beautifully with Rice Stuffed Avocados. If you want an extra crunch, add crushed crackers on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Calico Chicken Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs for color. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Homestyle Chicken Pot Pie or a warm bread roll.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. This will help maintain the casserole's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Chicken Casserole contains roughly 358 calories, with 17g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Using raw chicken will require additional cooking time and should be sautéed thoroughly before mixing it with other ingredients. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
What can I use if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade white sauce or another cream soup like cream of chicken. This will maintain the creamy consistency and flavor of the dish.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and freeze it before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).