Cooley'S Chicken Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole with crunchy almonds, water chestnuts, and a creamy sauce, perfect for family dinners and potlucks requiring comforting, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the diced cooked chicken, celery or broccoli, cooked rice, onion, cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, sliced water chestnuts, and slivered almonds.
- Place the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter.
- Sprinkle the cornflake mixture over the casserole.
- Bake in a 350°F oven until bubbly, about 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you prefer vegetables, swap broccoli for diced bell peppers or peas, or use a mix of both. To enhance the dish, try incorporating some garlic powder or paprika into the mixture. For a crunchier topping, mix in some grated Parmesan with the cornflakes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or a Potato Vegetable Medley for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside biscuits or crusty bread. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the topping may lose some crunchiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cooley'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1661 calories, with 24g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 127g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2251mg per serving (98% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute diced turkey, cooked shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, ensuring everything is heated through before serving.
What can I do if I don't have cream of chicken soup?
If you're out of cream of chicken soup, you can make a homemade version by combining equal parts of chicken broth and heavy cream, thickened with a bit of flour or cornstarch. Alternatively, use cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile, or try a white sauce seasoned with herbs for a lighter option.
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).