Claire'S Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole blending tender chicken, green beans, water chestnuts, and crunchy almonds with creamy soup and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare rice according to package directions, shortening cooking time by 5 minutes.
- Saute onion in melted butter until translucent.
- Combine cooked rice and sautéed onion with remaining ingredients: chicken, green beans, water chestnuts, cream of celery soup, mayonnaise, and blanched almonds.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 3-quart baking dish.
- Top with grated cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme and parsley to the sautéed onions. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If you don't have water chestnuts, sliced mushrooms can provide a similar crunch. For a gluten-free option, ensure the cream of celery soup is gluten-free, or make your own with fresh celery and broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Anthony'S Awesome Chicken And Rice for a hearty family dinner. For a crunchy texture, consider serving with crispy breadsticks or a slice of garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for quicker reheating. If the casserole appears dry, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Claire'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 29 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 leftover chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time and reduce waste. Just shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for Uncle Ben rice?
You can use any quick-cooking rice or even brown rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a low-carb option, cauliflower rice can also work well, though the texture will differ.
Can I freeze the chicken casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).