Hunnington Chicken
Hunnington Chicken is a comforting baked casserole combining tender chicken, macaroni, and a cheesy, flavorful sauce topped with crispy bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the shell macaroni until tender but not mushy.
- Thicken the chicken broth with flour and layer it in a 2 to 3-quart casserole dish with cooked chicken and macaroni. Add poultry seasoning if desired.
- Top with American cheese and buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot with the bread crumbs sprinkled over the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the broth mixture. If you don't have American cheese, any melting cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can work as a substitute. For added flavor, sprinkle in some garlic powder or herbs de Provence. Make sure the macaroni is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious on its own, but for a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of garlic bread or rolls pairs beautifully with Hunnington Chicken. For a comforting twist, you can also serve it alongside a warm bowl of chicken soup or enjoy it with a glass of crisp white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hunnington Chicken contains roughly 108 calories, with 8g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1095mg per serving (48% 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 uncooked chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use uncooked chicken, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before layering it in the casserole. Alternatively, you can poach the chicken in the broth before adding it to the dish for added flavor.
What can I use if I don't have shell macaroni?
If shell macaroni is unavailable, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, penne, or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose to keep it from becoming overcooked.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cooked vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace cheese with a plant-based alternative to create a delicious meat-free option.
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).