Chicken "N" Cheese Casserole
A comforting chicken and cheese casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy mushroom soup, and melted Cheddar, perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large casserole dish, combine cooked macaroni, chopped cooked chicken, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cubed Cheddar cheese.
- Mix all ingredients well.
- Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake for 35 to 45 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions or garlic to the mixture. For a healthier twist, substitute whole wheat macaroni and use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breasts. If you're looking for a creamier texture, you can mix in a bit of Greek yogurt. This casserole is a fantastic way to use leftover chicken or try it with a side of steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken 'N' Cheese Casserole with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition. This dish is perfect for family get-togethers, making it a great option for casual gatherings or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F covered for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken "N" Cheese Casserole contains roughly 671 calories, with 29g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1235mg per serving (54% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to maintain that creamy texture in the casserole.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. To do so, assemble the dish without baking it, then cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the original instructions.
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).