Chicken Cheese Meltaway Casserole
A comforting chicken and cheese casserole with creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners and cheese lovers seeking a hearty, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling, salted water until tender. Drain and rinse.
- Melt butter in a saucepan. Add chopped onion and cook over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in flour, salt, thyme, and pepper.
- Gradually add milk, cooking until thickened while stirring constantly.
- Arrange half of the cooked macaroni in the bottom of a lightly greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Layer half of the cooked chicken over the macaroni.
- Place cheese slices over the chicken.
- Repeat the layering with remaining macaroni, chicken, and cheese.
- Pour the sauce over the layered mixture.
- Mix buttered bread crumbs with minced parsley and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or substituting half of the American cheese with cheddar. If you're short on time, use rotisserie chicken as a convenient alternative. Ensure to stir the sauce continuously to avoid lumps while it thickens. For a different twist, try adding vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a more hearty option, consider pairing it with Easy Wonderful Potato Soup for a complete cozy meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cheese Meltaway Casserole contains roughly 859 calories, with 20g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (55% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1631mg per serving (71% 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 a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta's instructions for optimal texture.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just assemble it up to the point of pouring the sauce on top, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before heating it in the oven.
What can I substitute for American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute American cheese with mild cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the creamy texture of the casserole.
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).