Country Style Chicken Casserole
Country Style Chicken Casserole offers a hearty, creamy combination of tender chicken, egg noodles, and a savory pimento sauce topped with Parmesan cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, delivering warm flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and drain.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Blend in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, until smooth.
- Gradually add chicken broth, milk, pimentos, salt, and pepper to the skillet, stirring constantly.
- Bring the mixture to a boiling point, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Grease a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Combine the cooked noodles, chopped cooked chicken, and sauce in the casserole dish.
- Top with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using homemade chicken broth instead of canned. You can substitute the egg noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. If you want to add a veggie boost, consider mixing in some frozen peas or carrots before baking. For a creamier sauce, increase the milk by 1/4 cup and reduce the broth accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
This Country Style Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, you could also serve it with hash brown potatoes for a hearty family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Style Chicken Casserole contains roughly 384 calories, with 12g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1893mg 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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor to your casserole. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones, and chop the meat into bite-sized pieces before mixing it into the casserole.
Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?
Yes! You can use low-fat milk and a light butter substitute to reduce calories. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, can boost the nutritional value without sacrificing taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
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).