Chicken Huntington
Chicken Huntington is a hearty, comforting casserole featuring tender stewed chicken, macaroni, vegetables, and melted cheeses. The rich, savory flavors are complemented by a crispy bread crumb topping, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings that call for a satisfying, cheesy meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stew the chicken, then bone and cut into small pieces.
- Cook the macaroni until tender, then mix with cheese, pimentos, peas, and diced mushrooms.
- In a saucepan, melt butter, add flour, and 2 cups of chicken broth. Cook until thickened.
- Add the thickened sauce to the chicken mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Cover the top with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- During the last 10 minutes of baking, sprinkle grated cheese on top and cook until melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the sauce before mixing it with the chicken mixture. You can substitute the chicken with turkey for a delicious variation or use gluten-free flour if needed. Adding some herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor, and feel free to switch the cheese with your favorite melting cheese for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Huntington alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with fluffy rice for a comforting side dish. For a heartier meal, consider serving with garlic bread or crusty rolls. This dish is perfect for family gatherings and can be complemented with a light white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes, or microwave in individual portions for quicker serving. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Huntington contains roughly 990 calories, with 13g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (44% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 frozen peas instead of canned?
Yes, frozen peas can be used as a substitute for canned peas. Just add them directly to the macaroni mixture without thawing, as they will cook through during the baking process. This can enhance the freshness of the dish, giving it a vibrant color and texture.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
A good melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack works best for this recipe. You can also experiment with a blend of cheeses for added flavor, such as mozzarella or even a bit of blue cheese for a unique twist. Just ensure the cheese is cubed for easy mixing and melting.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and bake as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
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).