Chicken Casserole For A Crowd
A hearty chicken casserole with creamy mushroom and pimento flavors, topped with cheese and crispy bread crumbs. Perfect for large gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line two baking dishes with butter and place slices of white bread.
- Spread cooked chicken evenly over the bread slices.
- Cut up mushrooms and water chestnuts into small pieces.
- Dot the mixture with mayonnaise.
- Combine the cream of chicken soups and spread over the chicken layer.
- Add chopped pimentos and sprinkle with sharp cheese.
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs, milk, and salt together.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the assembled layers.
- Keep the casserole in the refrigerator for 4 hours to set.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30 minutes.
- Sauté butter and bread crumbs until browned.
- Spread the toasted bread crumbs over the casserole.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or using a flavored variety. You can substitute cooked turkey for the chicken if desired, especially after holidays. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to speed up the process. This dish can also be customized with your favorite vegetables or different cheese varieties to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or rolls. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to other comforting chicken recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You may also microwave individual portions, but the oven method helps maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Casserole For A Crowd contains roughly 682 calories, with 16g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (72% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1349mg per serving (59% 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 prepare the chicken casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. Just ensure you cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out.
What can I use instead of white bread?
You can substitute white bread with whole wheat bread, sourdough, or even cornbread for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the bread can hold up to the moist ingredients without becoming too soggy.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake 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).