Chicken Almond Crunch
A savory chicken and almond casserole featuring crunchy toasted almonds, melted cheese, and fresh celery, perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal that appeals to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Toss flour into shredded cheese.
- Combine 3/4 cup cheese, 1/2 cup toasted almonds, cooked chicken, celery, lemon juice, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning; mix well.
- Roll pastry into a 15-inch square.
- Fit pastry into an 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
- Trim pastry to 1 inch beyond the edge of the dish.
- Fill with the meat mixture.
- Top with remaining cheese and toasted almonds.
- Bake for 35 minutes at 400°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the toasted almonds with pecans or walnuts if desired. Make sure to finely chop the celery for better texture. If you want to add more flavor, fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be mixed into the filling. Toss the cheese with flour to prevent clumping during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Almond Crunch pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside Microwave Rice Pilaf for a heartier option. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for added flavor. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a dollop of cranberry sauce on the side, enhancing the savory elements.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be cautious not to overheat as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Almond Crunch contains roughly 571 calories, with 10g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1072mg per serving (47% 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?
It is recommended to use cooked chicken for this recipe to ensure it's safe to eat and has the right texture. If you only have raw chicken, cook it thoroughly first, then shred it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for celery?
If you're not a fan of celery, you can substitute it with diced bell peppers or carrots for a similar crunch. Both options will add a bit of sweetness and color to the dish without compromising the flavor.
Can I freeze the Chicken Almond Crunch?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It may require a few extra minutes in the oven due to being frozen.
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).