Harold'S Chicken Casserole
Harold's Chicken Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish featuring tender chicken, crunchy crackers, and savory soups, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Spread a layer of crushed Ritz crackers on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Mix all remaining ingredients (boiled chicken, cream soups, sour cream, water chestnuts) together.
- Pour the mixture over the layer of crackers in the baking dish.
- Top with the remaining crushed crackers.
- Bake until bubbly and brown, approximately 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of boiling your own. You can substitute the cream soups with homemade versions or use low-fat alternatives if desired. If you want to enhance the crunch, add some chopped nuts to the cracker topping. Also, feel free to mix in vegetables like peas or corn for extra nutrition, similar to what's done in Chicken And Rice Dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or biscuits. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a great choice for feeding a crowd, much like Casserole For A Crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Harold'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 759 calories, with 8g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value) and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 529mg per serving (23% 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 freeze this chicken casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. If baked, leftovers can also be frozen for future meals.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use any buttery cracker or even crushed potato chips for a different flavor. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free crackers or panko breadcrumbs, which will give a similar texture and crunch.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or even spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely and possibly sauté them before mixing them in, ensuring they cook evenly during baking.
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).