Chicken Normandy
A comforting chicken casserole with creamy mushroom or celery soup, topped with crunchy bread crumbs and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the bread crumbs, melted oleo, and water.
- Place half of the breadcrumb mixture in a greased casserole dish.
- Combine cooked chopped chicken, mayonnaise, chopped onion, chopped celery, and salt; put this mixture into the casserole over the breadcrumb layer.
- Top with the remaining breadcrumb mixture.
- Beat eggs and milk together and pour evenly over the casserole.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Take the casserole out 1 hour before baking.
- Spread the cream of celery or mushroom soup evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 325°F for 40 minutes.
- Top with grated cheese and bake for a few more minutes until melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you prefer a crunchier topping, sprinkle some crushed crackers or additional breadcrumbs mixed with herbs on top before baking. You can also add vegetables like peas or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. This dish can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Normandy pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting twist, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or rice, which complements the dish's rich flavors. A light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, would also enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, individual servings can be microwaved for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Normandy contains roughly 574 calories, with 10g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1881mg per serving (82% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked?
It's best to use cooked chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking and proper texture. However, if you prefer to use raw chicken, you can sauté it beforehand or bake it separately, then shred it and add it to the casserole. This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make your own by blending cooked celery with cream and broth. Another option is to use a homemade white sauce or béchamel with sautéed vegetables for a fresher taste.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of Chicken Normandy by replacing the chicken with cooked mushrooms or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth and a vegetarian cream soup to maintain the flavor and texture while catering to vegetarian diets.
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).