Great Leftover Chicken Casserole
A comforting casserole made with leftover chicken, filling, and gravy, topped with bread crumbs. Perfect for a quick, hearty meal that appeals to family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (moderate oven).
- Grease a casserole dish.
- Layer leftover chicken, leftover filling, and gravy (add chopped onions if desired) in the dish until full.
- Top with bread crumbs.
- Bake in the oven until the top is browned.
- Serve with a side of peas or salads.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavors, consider adding spices like garlic powder or thyme to the layers. If you don't have bread crumbs, crushed crackers or even leftover cornbread from Cornbread Dressing(Never Fails) can work as a crunchy topping. For a creamier texture, mix in some sour cream or cream of chicken soup with the gravy. Adjust the layers based on your leftover quantities for a balanced dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of steamed peas or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside mashed potatoes for a heartier option. For those who enjoy bread, consider serving with warm rolls or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the gravy. It's a versatile dish that complements many sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, but be sure to cover with a damp paper towel to keep the casserole moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Leftover Chicken Casserole contains roughly 7 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 leftover chicken?
While leftover chicken is ideal for this recipe, you can use raw chicken. Cook it thoroughly first, then shred it before layering. This will add a fresh taste, but remember that cooking time may increase as you'll need to bake until the chicken is cooked through.
What can I substitute for gravy?
If you don't have gravy, you can substitute with a simple white sauce made from butter, flour, and chicken broth. Alternatively, a can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup can work well, adding both moisture and flavor to the casserole.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this casserole healthier, consider using skinless chicken and adding more vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers between the layers. You can also use whole grain bread crumbs or a mixture of oats and spices for the topping instead of regular 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).