Corn Bread Chicken Casserole
A creamy, savory casserole combining tender chicken, water chestnuts, and cornbread stuffing for a comforting, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken and break it apart.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, water chestnuts, cream of chicken mushroom soup, and chopped celery. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Spread the cornbread stuffing evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.
- Pour the melted butter or margarine over the stuffing layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like thyme or parsley with the chicken mixture. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you prefer, use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Make sure to use a creamy soup to maintain the dish's texture, similar to how it’s done in Chicken Salad Spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Country Buttermilk Fried Chicken for a hearty gathering. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving with a fruit salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for about 2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until thoroughly heated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Corn Bread Chicken Casserole contains roughly 717 calories, with 6g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1824mg per serving (79% 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just ensure it is fully cooked and shredded before adding it to the mixture. Thawing it overnight in the refrigerator is the best method for even cooking.
What can I substitute for water chestnuts?
If you don’t have water chestnuts, you can use chopped almonds or jicama for a similar crunch. Both alternatives will add texture to the casserole without significantly altering the flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just cover it tightly with foil. Increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking 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).