Dad'S Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole with creamy mushroom and celery flavors, topped with crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs—perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with Ritz cracker crumbs.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add a cup of frozen peas or substitute the Chinese noodles with egg noodles for a different texture. If you prefer a bit of spice, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. This casserole is reminiscent of classic American recipes and is sure to please a crowd.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to serve as a standalone dish, but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting twist, consider serving alongside elements of Jeannie'S Casserole for a delightful family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring it's evenly heated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1078 calories, with 21g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (53% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2566mg per serving (112% 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 in this casserole?
Using raw chicken is not recommended as this recipe requires pre-cooked chicken for proper texture and flavor. However, you can cook the chicken beforehand, or use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you don't have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can create a homemade version using a roux made from butter, flour, and chicken broth, then add cream for a similar consistency. Alternatively, you can use cream of mushroom soup for a different 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 store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through properly.
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).