Chicken And Crab Casserole
A creamy chicken and crab casserole with tender peas and crispy bread crumbs, perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion seafood dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add chopped onion and sauté about 10 minutes until soft.
- Stir in flour.
- Gradually add chicken stock and light cream, stirring constantly.
- Add salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Arrange cooked chicken, peas, and crab meat in layers in a buttered 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour the sauce over the layered ingredients.
- Top with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of light cream. You can substitute the crab meat with shrimp or lobster if desired. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the sauce. For a healthier option, swap out buttered bread crumbs for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken And Crab Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. Consider serving it alongside baked celery for an interesting side. A light white wine or sparkling water enhances the flavors, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. For a more substantial dinner, serve with wild rice for a complete experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but the oven method helps retain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And Crab Casserole contains roughly 227 calories, with 8g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1592mg per serving (69% 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. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking it as directed. This way, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort on busy days.
What can I substitute for the chicken?
If you want to make this dish vegetarian or use a different protein, you can substitute the chicken with shredded cooked mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based option. For a different flavor profile, consider using cooked turkey or even a seafood medley for a unique twist on this casserole.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it according to the original instructions for a comforting meal.
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).