Chicken Almindzini
Creamy chicken and broccoli casserole with toasted almonds, Swiss cheese, and a savory mayonnaise sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup flour ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons minced onion ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt ⓘ
- 2 1/4 cups milk ⓘ
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup dry white wine ⓘ
- 1/4 cup chopped pimento ⓘ
- 7 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken ⓘ
- 10 ounces frozen chopped broccoli, thawed ⓘ
- 1 1/4 cups sliced almonds ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine mayonnaise, flour, minced onion, garlic salt, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Gradually add milk, cooking over low heat and stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add shredded Swiss cheese and white wine; stir until cheese is melted.
- In a large bowl, mix the mayonnaise mixture with cooked spaghetti, chopped cooked chicken, thawed broccoli, 3/4 cup sliced almonds, chopped pimento, and mushrooms; toss lightly.
- Pour the mixture into an 11 x 7 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Top with remaining sliced almonds.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Serve garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If Swiss cheese isn't available, Gruyère or mozzarella can be used as substitutes. To add more flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. For added texture, you can toss in some sautéed mushrooms, which would complement the dish nicely. Ensure to stir continuously while cooking the milk mixture to avoid lumps.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Almindzini pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also consider serving it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, a side of roasted potatoes can complement the dish well. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving enhances the flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Almindzini contains roughly 1219 calories, with 33g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. The key is to use a pasta that holds sauce well, making alternatives like fettuccine or rotini good options as well.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. If it's been sitting in the fridge, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze Chicken Almindzini?
Yes, this dish freezes well. To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
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).