Chicken Chip Casserole
A creamy, cheesy chicken casserole with crunchy croutons and optional almonds, perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings, offering comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions and celery.
- Mix all the ingredients including cooked chicken, celery, croutons, mayonnaise, almonds (if using), cream of chicken soup, cheese, and lemon juice.
- Place the mixture in an ungreased casserole dish.
- Bake at 400°F for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. You can also substitute cooked turkey for chicken or even use canned chicken for convenience. If you want extra flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. For a crunchier topping, sprinkle additional croutons on top before baking. This casserole is reminiscent of Chicken Sunday Dinner Casserole, making it a comforting classic.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Chip Casserole with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier side, consider offering mashed potatoes or rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, just like other American recipes that bring everyone together.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring it's heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Chip Casserole contains roughly 1981 calories, with 29g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 170g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2730mg per serving (119% 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 a day in advance. Just assemble it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of croutons?
If you don't have croutons, you can use crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or even cooked rice as a substitute. Each will add a different texture, so choose based on your preference!
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly. Add some lentils for protein and a hearty texture.
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).