Chicken Casserole Bake
A creamy chicken casserole with tender noodles, savory gravy, and cheesy topping, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings that satisfy all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1/2 cup milk to the cooked noodles.
- In a kettle, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons butter.
- Blend in flour, salt, and white pepper.
- Add the remaining 3 cups of milk and cook, stirring, until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Stir in chicken gravy, cooked chicken, chopped pimento, and the noodles. Spread the mixture in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
- Combine bread crumbs and 1 1/2 tablespoons melted butter; blend in processed American cheese.
- Sprinkle the bread crumb mixture around the edges of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. You can substitute the medium noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired. Additionally, using leftover rotisserie chicken can save time and enhance flavor. To elevate the dish, try incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Casserole Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread or a light soup for a comforting dinner. For a twist, consider serving it with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, which can add an interesting flavor contrast.
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 20-25 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Casserole Bake contains roughly 581 calories, with 7g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value), calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 857mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze this Chicken Casserole Bake?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. To freeze, cool completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of chicken gravy?
If you don't have chicken gravy, you can substitute with a homemade roux-based sauce or cream of chicken soup. Simply mix a can of cream of chicken soup with a bit of milk to achieve a similar consistency and flavor.
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).