Chicken Ham Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole with mushrooms, ham, and a creamy sauce, layered with noodles and almonds, perfect for family dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the chicken, salt, pepper, onion, and celery tops in a pressure cooker and cook until tender.
- Cut the cooked chicken into large pieces and strain the cooking liquid, reserving it for later.
- In a skillet, cook the butter, mushrooms, and minced onion until tender.
- Add the flour, light cream, chicken broth, dry mustard, and salt to the skillet to make a sauce.
- Combine the sauce with the cooked chicken and allow to cool if preparing ahead.
- Layer noodles, ham, almonds, and the chicken mixture in a casserole dish.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the mushrooms. If you don't have light cream, you can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter. To save time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own. For a crunchier texture, add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Ham Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It's also delicious served with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a warm biscuit, echoing the heartiness of American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the casserole's texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Ham Casserole contains roughly 261 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 19g fat.
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 other meats instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute turkey or even ham for the chicken if you prefer. Just ensure the meat is cooked before adding it to the casserole. This can be a great way to use up leftovers from dishes like Mr. Mcgill'S Chicken or other meat-based recipes.
What kind of noodles should I use?
Egg noodles or wide pasta work best for this casserole, as they hold up well during baking. If you want a gluten-free option, consider using rice or gluten-free pasta. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as different pasta types may cook at different rates.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're putting it in the oven straight from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for busy days or gatherings.
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).