Chicken Feathers Voo-Doo Casserole
A creamy, savory casserole combining tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and melted Velveeta, topped with crispy chow mein noodles for added texture. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will satisfy a crowd and bring comfort to the table.
Ingredients
- 1 chicken, boiled and diced ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups celery, chopped ⓘ
- 1 onion, chopped ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise ⓘ
- 1 small jar pimentos ⓘ
- 1 cup grated Velveeta cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 can cream of chicken soup ⓘ
- 1 can water (soup can) ⓘ
- 1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds ⓘ
- 1 can chow mein Chinese noodles ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix all ingredients except the chow mein noodles in a large bowl: boiled and diced chicken, chopped celery, chopped onion, lemon juice, mayonnaise, small jar pimentos, grated Velveeta cheese, salt, cream of chicken soup, water, and toasted slivered almonds.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until bubbling.
- Sprinkle chow mein Chinese noodles over the top of the casserole.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the noodles are crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of sour cream. If you prefer a healthier twist, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise. To add more flavor, try including garlic powder or herbs like thyme or dill. You can also use leftover roast chicken instead of boiled chicken for added depth. For a crunchier topping, toast the chow mein noodles lightly before adding them to the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread. You can also enhance the dish with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving. For more hearty options, browse more American recipes that feature chicken, such as Fantastic Chicken or Easy Five Can Casserole.
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, covering it with foil if the top is browning too quickly. This will keep the dish moist while warming up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Feathers Voo-Doo Casserole contains roughly 1021 calories, with 21g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2424mg per serving (105% 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. Assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add the chow mein noodles, then bake as directed. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights or gatherings.
What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a more natural flavor. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but it will still melt beautifully. For a creamier consistency, consider adding a little cream cheese or a cheese sauce.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, you can easily create a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with cooked quinoa or a medley of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of cream of chicken soup and replace the cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative for a delicious meat-free option.
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).