Escort Chicken Casserole
A creamy, savory chicken casserole with crunchy cracker topping, water chestnuts, and rich soups, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted butter with crushed crackers.
- Sprinkle three-quarters of the cracker mixture in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Layer cooked and boned chicken breasts over the cracker mixture.
- Add sliced water chestnuts as the next layer.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream together.
- If the mixture is too thick, add milk to thin it out.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken and water chestnuts.
- Top with the remaining crackers.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you want to add some vegetables, frozen peas or green beans can be great additions. To enhance flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or onion salt into the cracker mixture. You could also use crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs as a substitute for the Escort crackers.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside rice or pasta for a heartier option. For a comforting contrast, consider serving it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes. For more chicken recipes, browse the collection for ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Escort Chicken Casserole contains roughly 613 calories, with 13g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% 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 casserole?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor to the dish. Just be sure to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces before layering it in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can make a homemade version of the cream soups using a roux and chicken broth. Alternatively, you can use a non-dairy cream substitute if you're looking for a dairy-free option.
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).