Chicken And Cheese Casserole
A comforting chicken and cheese casserole featuring flavorful wild rice, tender chopped chicken, and creamy cheese, baked to perfection. This dish is ideal for family dinners or gatherings, offering a hearty, cheesy taste with a hint of herbs and vegetables, satisfying both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, chopped chicken, pimento, and cream of celery soup.
- Stir in the chopped Velveeta cheese until well mixed.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for the chopped chicken. You can also swap the wild rice for quinoa or brown rice if you prefer. For added flavor, try mixing in some sautéed onions or bell peppers, reminiscent of Chicken Waldorf.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Cheese Casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted Brussels Sprouts With Cheese for a delightful contrast. For a comforting touch, you can also add a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, heating them in 1-minute increments until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 142 calories, with 8g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 848mg per serving (37% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta provides a creamy texture, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for varied flavor. Just ensure to maintain a similar quantity for the best consistency.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Just mix them in with the other ingredients, and they will cook nicely in the oven.
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).