Far East Casserole
A creamy, savory casserole featuring tender celery, peas, water chestnuts, and chicken, topped with crunchy bread crumbs and almonds, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a casserole dish.
- Mix together until well combined.
- Top with bread crumbs and sliced almonds.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the celery before adding it to the casserole. You can substitute fresh peas for the frozen ones if they are in season. If you're looking for a lighter option, use a low-fat version of the creamed chicken soup. Adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can also enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You might also enjoy it alongside Chicken recipes like Barbecued Chicken Sandwiches for a complete dining experience. For a fun twist, serve it with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Far East Casserole contains roughly 144 calories, with 9g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2066mg per serving (90% 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 vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas and other vegetables. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh vegetables may require a bit more time to soften compared to frozen ones.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the creamed chicken soup with a cream of mushroom or vegetable soup. Additionally, you can add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Try adding spices like black pepper, paprika, or thyme to enhance the flavor. Incorporating some grated cheese on top before baking can also add a delicious cheesy crust. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, consider mixing in some crushed garlic croutons with the bread crumbs.
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).