Chicken Nut Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole topped with crunchy cashews and chow mein noodles, blending creamy mushroom gravy and savory flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped celery and chopped onion in 1 tablespoon butter until tender.
- Add 2 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons flour to the skillet, then stir in chicken broth, salt, pepper, and milk. Cook until thickened.
- Add the cooked, chopped chicken and mushroom gravy to the mixture, then combine well.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle cashew nuts and chow mein noodles on top of the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. If you don’t have cashew nuts, you can use almonds or pecans as a substitute. Feel free to add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if you prefer a bit more spice or flavor depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Nut Casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside scalloped potatoes deluxe or garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain the casserole's crispy topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Nut Casserole contains roughly 779 calories, with 17g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2774mg per serving (121% 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 chicken in this recipe?
It's best to use cooked chicken to ensure even cooking and food safety. If you have raw chicken on hand, consider poaching or roasting it first, then chopping it before adding to the casserole.
What can I substitute for mushroom gravy?
If you don't have mushroom gravy, you can use a homemade white sauce with sautéed mushrooms or a store-bought cream of mushroom soup as a good alternative. Both will provide a similar flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking it straight from the fridge.
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).