Devilish Chicken Casserole
A creamy, savory chicken casserole with pimento and herbs, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering, offering rich flavors and hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a square baking pan (8 or 9 inches).
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
- Do not overcook to prevent dryness.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the mixture. If you don't have boned chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken works well as a substitute. For a lighter version, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Make sure not to overmix the ingredients to keep the texture airy, similar to how it's done in Chicken Strips In Butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Devilish Chicken Casserole hot, paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also goes well with crusty bread for a hearty dinner. For a comforting side, consider making Potato-Buttermilk Soup, which complements the casserole beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring it doesn't dry out. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Devilish Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1633 calories, with 19g protein, 183g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (132% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1379mg per serving (60% 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 fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded fresh chicken instead of canned. Just make sure to season it well, as canned chicken is already seasoned. Cooked chicken thighs or breasts work best, and you can bake them beforehand for a delicious homemade touch.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to increase the baking time slightly if it's coming straight from the fridge, as it will need more time to heat through.
What can I use instead of celery soup?
If you don't have celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce with sautéed celery and onions. This will maintain the creaminess while providing a different flavor profile, which can still result in a delicious casserole.
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).