Chicken Essex
Creamy, cheesy chicken casserole with tender pasta, vegetables, and a rich mushroom or celery sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and diced chicken ⓘ
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cream of mushroom soup or celery or chicken soup ⓘ
- 1 can (13 3/4 oz.) chicken broth ⓘ
- 1 can milk (soup can) ⓘ
- 1 small onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 jar (2 oz.) diced pimento ⓘ
- 1/2 green pepper, chopped
- 1 can sliced water chestnuts ⓘ
- 1/2 pound shredded Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
- When ready to bake, remove foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a homemade white sauce instead of canned soup. You can substitute the diced pimento with roasted red peppers if you prefer a milder flavor. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder can enhance the taste. Be mindful not to overcook the macaroni, as it will continue cooking in the oven. This dish is also great for meal prep, just like Finger Lickin Chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Chicken Essex with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Oven Scalloped Potatoes for a comforting dinner. You can also top it with extra cheese or fresh herbs before serving for added flavor and presentation.
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 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to cover with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Essex contains roughly 754 calories, with 25g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (58% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2213mg per serving (96% 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, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to avoid overcooking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with cooked, diced mushrooms or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth and a plant-based cream soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Essex is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare it the night before and refrigerate. Just remember to remove the foil before baking to ensure it gets a nice golden top. This is a fantastic option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
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).