Holiday Chicken And Crab
A hearty holiday casserole combining tender chicken, succulent crab, artichokes, and mushrooms, topped with Parmesan and bacon for a savory, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
- 2 packages frozen artichoke hearts, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 2 small cans sliced mushrooms, drained ⓘ
- 3-4 cups cooked, chopped chicken breast ⓘ
- 2 cans (7 oz each) crab meat
- 4 tablespoons dry sherry ⓘ
- 1 1/2 cups soft bread crumbs
- 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 slices cooked and crumbled bacon ⓘ
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups white sauce ⓘ
Instructions
- Grease the bottom of a large casserole dish.
- Place a layer of cooked and drained artichoke hearts at the bottom.
- Cover the artichokes with a layer of drained sliced mushrooms.
- Top with a layer of cooked, chopped chicken breast and crab meat.
- Pour white sauce over the layers, using 2 to 2 1/2 cups as needed.
- Sprinkle soft bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the breadcrumbs.
- Crumble cooked bacon slices over the cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to the white sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken and crab with additional artichokes and mushrooms. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed, and feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Jerrie'S Dressing for a flavorful side. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious white sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven method will keep the top crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Chicken And Crab contains roughly 210 calories, with 13g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (49% of the Daily Value) and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 512mg per serving (22% 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 artichokes instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh artichokes, but you'll need to cook and prepare them beforehand. Frozen artichokes are convenient and save time, but fresh ones can add a wonderful taste and texture if you're up for the extra effort.
What can I substitute for dry sherry?
If you don't have dry sherry, you can use white wine or a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water as a substitute. Both options will add acidity and depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).