Glorious Chicken Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole layered with tortillas, mushrooms, chilies, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavors and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer half of the tortillas and half of the cooked chicken in an 8 x 8-inch dish. Repeat.
- In a saucepan, combine flour, salt, chicken bouillon cubes, and tomato ketchup.
- Gradually blend in skim milk and heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms, diced chilies, and onion flakes; pour the sauce over the layered tortillas and chicken.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil.
- Refrigerate for 24 hours.
- Bake, covered, at 300°F (150°C) for 1.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. If you prefer a bit more heat, you can use spicy diced chilies instead of mild. To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with cooked beans or lentils. You can also replace the tortillas with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option. This recipe is reminiscent of Grammi's Chicken Casserole, perfect for comforting family meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this glorious chicken casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Quick Bean Soup for an extra hearty dinner. For added flavor, consider topping with fresh cilantro or avocado slices just before serving. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can be made ahead and simply baked before serving.
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 (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious not to overcook as it may dry out. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glorious Chicken Casserole contains roughly 863 calories, with 34g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2504mg per serving (109% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just layer the tortillas and chicken, prepare the sauce, and pour it over the layers. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. Bake it the next day as instructed for a delicious meal that saves time.
What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with cooked beans, lentils, or even sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. You could also use shredded tofu for a similar texture while maintaining protein content. This allows you to enjoy a hearty dish without meat.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy nights.
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).