Depression Chicken And Noodles
A comforting baked chicken and noodles casserole with creamy soups, cheese, and vegetables, perfect for a hearty family meal or cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cooked chicken, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, green bell pepper, grated Cheddar cheese, diced celery, and pimentos in a bowl.
- Place both packages of uncooked egg noodles in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Pour the combined ingredients over the noodles.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some cooked vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and color. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute the cream soups with a homemade white sauce. You can also use leftover turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor. This recipe is very forgiving, so feel free to adjust the cheese amount or add your favorite herbs for a personalized touch.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a balanced meal, consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables or a fruit salad. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top just before serving can also elevate the dish's presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they're heated thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Depression Chicken And Noodles contains roughly 627 calories, with 32g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (109% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1330mg per serving (58% 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 rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. Just shred the meat and add it to the mixture as directed. This is a great way to use leftover chicken from dinner, making the recipe even quicker to prepare.
What can I substitute for the cream of celery soup?
If you don’t have cream of celery soup, you can use an equal amount of cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce as a substitute. This will still give the dish a creamy texture while providing a slightly different flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free egg noodles and ensuring that the cream soups are also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish without gluten.
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).