Grannie'S Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole featuring creamy soups, water chestnuts, and crispy cracker crumbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken breasts, then cut into small pieces.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, sliced water chestnuts, and optional chopped celery together.
- Combine the mixture with the cooked chicken pieces.
- Layer the mixture in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle cracker crumbs on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F until bubbling, about 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with plain yogurt. Feel free to mix in some chopped vegetables like celery or bell peppers for added crunch. This dish can also benefit from a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Grannie’s Chicken Casserole pairs beautifully with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside some garlic bread or rice. This dish is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, offering a comforting and satisfying choice that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored 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 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grannie'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 324 calories, with 24g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg per serving (34% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use raw chicken; just ensure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the casserole. You may want to bake the casserole for about 15-20 minutes longer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can use an additional can of cream of chicken soup or make your own by blending cooked mushrooms with cream and seasoning. This will maintain the creamy texture while adding a unique flavor to the casserole.
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).