Chicken Deluxe Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole layered with savory stuffing and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for family dinners. The combination of tender chicken, peas, and crunchy stuffing topping creates a hearty dish that appeals to all ages and pairs well with a simple salad or vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the stuffing and melted butter together.
- Press half of the mixture into a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine the evaporated milk, cooked chicken, chopped celery, frozen peas, cream of mushroom soups, and minced onion.
- Pour the mixture over the stuffing in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining stuffing mixture on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can swap out the frozen peas for frozen corn or mixed vegetables. Consider using low-sodium cream of mushroom soup for a healthier option. If you prefer a crunchier topping, add some crushed crackers or fried onions on top before baking. A sprinkle of garlic powder can also enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it with garlic bread or buttery rolls. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, and leftovers make a quick lunch option.
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 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method will keep the topping crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Deluxe Casserole contains roughly 595 calories, with 6g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is a good source of iron (16% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 742mg per serving (32% 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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just be sure to shred or cube the chicken before adding it to the casserole mixture, and you can skip the cooking step entirely.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you need a substitute for cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, heavy cream, and chicken broth. This will maintain a creamy texture while adding a different flavor profile.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you're ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This makes it a convenient make-ahead meal!
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).