Chicken Casserole(Recipe From Cousin Adeline)
A comforting chicken casserole layered with bread, celery, and sharp cheddar, baked to golden perfection—ideal for family dinners and gatherings craving hearty, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken breasts; cool, bone, and dice.
- Cut the crust from the bread; retain the crusts.
- Combine diced chicken, bread crusts, chopped celery, and 1¾ cups of shredded cheese.
- Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch glass Pyrex dish.
- Cut the remaining bread into diagonals and layer over the chicken mixture, overlapping as needed.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs slightly, then add mayonnaise, salt, and milk; mix very well.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and chicken layers.
- Spread the remaining shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
- Refrigerate overnight or for at least 2 hours.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of chicken soup to the chicken mixture. You can substitute rotisserie chicken for the raw chicken breasts to save time. If you prefer a lighter dish, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This chicken casserole is a great way to use up stale bread, so don’t hesitate to use what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this flavorful chicken casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Christine's Baked Chicken for a comforting family dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside some garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Casserole(Recipe From Cousin Adeline) contains roughly 790 calories, with 32g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (63% of the Daily Value), calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2138mg per serving (93% 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 this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to take it out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be great substitutes for Cheddar. Mixing in some Parmesan can also add a nice flavor. Just keep in mind that the melting qualities might vary slightly, so adjust baking time as necessary.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This chicken casserole pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a light touch. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or even some buttery corn. It’s versatile, making it a perfect dish for any occasion.
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).