Imogene Evans' Chicken Surprise
A comforting chicken casserole with savory stuffing, creamy mushroom sauce, and tender chicken, perfect for family dinners and those craving hearty, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken, remove the bones, and cut the chicken into pieces. Save the broth.
- Line the bottom of an oblong baking dish with the bread crumbs from the Stove Top stuffing package.
- Place the cooked chicken over the bread crumbs in the dish.
- In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of the reserved broth with the seasoning from the stuffing package and cook according to the package directions.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, then add the sour cream, mushroom soup, pimientos, milk, flour, and oleo, mixing well.
- Pour the egg mixture over the chicken and stuffing in the dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 30-45 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the egg mixture. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free stuffing. You can also replace the chicken with turkey for a holiday twist. Make sure to season the chicken well while boiling for enhanced taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or the beloved Gary'S Potatoes. A light drizzle of gravy can enhance the flavors, or serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for added zest.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Imogene Evans' Chicken Surprise contains roughly 301 calories, with 10g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and iron (17% 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 rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using rotisserie chicken can save time and add extra flavor. Simply shred the chicken and layer it over the stuffing without boiling it first. Adjust the broth quantity if needed, as rotisserie chicken is often juicier.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare everything up to baking, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, and adjust cooking time as necessary.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream, providing a similar tangy flavor with added protein. You might also consider using cream cheese thinned with a little milk for a creamy texture in this recipe.
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).