Chicken Breast In Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender chicken, creamy Velveeta, mushrooms, and pasta, perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a casserole baking dish.
- Let stand overnight in refrigerator; remove one hour before baking.
- Bake 1 hour at 350° in a preheated oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the Velveeta cheese with a blend of sharp cheddar and cream cheese. If you prefer a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of cream of mushroom soup. You can also add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. Allowing the dish to sit overnight enhances the flavors, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Breast in Casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a light soup, like Corn Medley Chowder, to round out the dining experience. For a fun twist, serve with a dollop of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions until hot. If the casserole appears dry, add a splash of milk while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Breast In Casserole contains roughly 760 calories, with 16g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (35% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1144mg per serving (50% 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 cooked chicken instead of diced raw chicken?
Yes, using cooked chicken is a great time-saver. Just ensure it's shredded or diced into small pieces to mix well with the other ingredients. This can also add extra flavor if the chicken is seasoned.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, substitute the Creamettes pasta with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup used is labeled gluten-free, or opt for a homemade version if preferred.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and freeze it unbaked. Just ensure it's well-covered to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking 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).