Eight Can Casserole
A hearty, cheesy casserole with tender chicken, creamy mushroom sauce, crispy fried onions, and crunchy chow mein noodles, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a 3-quart casserole, mix together the chicken, cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, evaporated milk, chow mein noodles, and drained mushrooms if using.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle fried onion rings on top and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can substitute the chicken with canned tuna or beans for a vegetarian option. If you want a crunchier topping, mix some crushed crackers with the fried onion rings before adding them to the casserole. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes that are simple yet satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to be a standalone dish but pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be served alongside crusty bread or mashed potatoes. Consider serving it with the Chicken And Rice Summer Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eight Can Casserole contains roughly 1267 calories, with 27g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (80% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2204mg per serving (96% 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 chicken instead of canned. Just ensure it is fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole. This will give a fresher flavor to the dish, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use any cream soup, like cream of celery or cream of chicken. Alternatively, you can make a simple homemade version using milk, flour, and sautéed mushrooms for a more natural flavor.
Is it possible to prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking 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).