Casserole Of Chicken
A comforting casserole blending tender chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and fragrant rice, all coated in a creamy mayonnaise mixture and baked to perfection. Topped with sliced eggs and Chinese noodles for added texture and flavor, this dish is ideal for family dinners or potlucks seeking a savory, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend mayonnaise with water until smooth.
- Add cooked chicken, diced celery, chopped onion, water chestnuts, cooked rice, lemon juice, cream of chicken, salt, and pepper to the mayonnaise mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Garnish with sliced hard-boiled eggs and Chinese noodles before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute cooked turkey for chicken or incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or peas. If you want a bit more crunch, try adding slivered almonds or cashews. To enhance the flavor, a dash of soy sauce or sesame oil can bring a nice twist to the dish, reminiscent of Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread for added flavor. For a themed dinner, you can also serve it alongside other Chinese recipes like stir-fry chicken or beef with noodles for a delightful variety on the table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 1-2 minutes, or until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Of Chicken contains roughly 581 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1982mg per serving (86% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients and cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, simply remove the cover and heat in the oven. This allows the flavors to meld, making for a delicious meal.
What can I use instead of water chestnuts?
If you don't have water chestnuts, you can substitute with sliced bamboo shoots or chopped bell peppers for a similar crunch. While they won't replicate the exact flavor, they will provide the necessary texture. Also, try using fresh mushrooms for an earthy note in the dish.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen. Before baking, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To bake from frozen, you’ll need to extend the cooking time by about 15-20 minutes while ensuring it heats thoroughly.
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).