Fried Chicken Casserole
A comforting casserole featuring tender leftover fried chicken topped with a savory mushroom mixture and crunchy cracker crumbs, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped bell pepper, chopped onion, and chopped celery in margarine until tender.
- Add mushroom soup and chopped pimento to the sauteed vegetables and heat through.
- Pour the mushroom mixture over the leftover fried chicken in a casserole dish.
- Top with Ritz cracker crumbs.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mushroom soup. If you don't have pimento, diced roasted red peppers or olives can be a good substitute. You can also use leftover baked chicken for a different flavor profile. For a crunchy topping, try adding some grated cheese to the Ritz cracker crumbs, which pairs beautifully with Chicken 'N' Dressing Bake.
Serving Suggestions
This Fried Chicken Casserole makes a hearty main dish, perfect for family dinners. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with a side of cornbread or biscuits, complementing the flavors beautifully. For added zest, consider serving with hot sauce or pickles.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Chicken Casserole contains roughly 952 calories, with 10g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (703% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (88% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1196mg per serving (52% 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 leftover fried chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked chicken! Simply cook and season the chicken as desired before shredding it for the casserole. This will give you a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a gluten-free option for the Ritz cracker crumbs?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Ritz crackers with gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Just ensure that the other ingredients and the soup you use are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze the Fried Chicken Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. This allows for easy meal prep and quick dinners.
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).