Chicken And "Trees" Casserole
Creamy chicken and vegetable casserole with subtle curry flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile over rice or as a stand-alone dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the cooked chicken, barely cooked broccoli, and barely cooked peas in a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the baking pan.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes.
- Serve hot, preferably over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a little sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you don't have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute with cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile. Adjust the curry powder according to your taste; if you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious when served over a bed of rice, which helps soak up the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread. It also goes well with other comforting dishes like Country Cornbread Stuffing for a heartier spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken And "Trees" Casserole contains roughly 1089 calories, with 8g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 110g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (76% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 837mg per serving (36% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Just make sure to blanch it briefly before adding it to the casserole to ensure it cooks properly during baking. Fresh vegetables add a delightful texture and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator covered. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use plain Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Both options will maintain the creaminess of the sauce while offering a different flavor profile.
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).