Jerry'S Viva La Chicken
A flavorful baked chicken and noodle casserole with creamy mushroom and chicken soups, topped with cheese for a comforting family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, picante sauce, noodles, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, chopped onion, milk, and cooked chicken together in a large, greased casserole dish.
- Cover the casserole and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
- The next day, bake the casserole at 325°F (160°C) for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until heated through and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with additional cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. You can substitute the noodles with cooked rice for a different base, or use gluten-free noodles if needed. Adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños can enhance the flavor profile. If you want a lighter option, use low-fat versions of the soups and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside garlic bread or cornbread for a comforting touch. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a side of The Feed Bag's White Chili to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jerry'S Viva La Chicken contains roughly 14 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken, but it will require cooking before mixing with the other ingredients. Boil or bake the chicken until fully cooked, then shred or cube it for the casserole. This will ensure that the chicken is tender and flavorful in the final dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with a mix of sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of the soups if you want to keep the dish flavorful without meat. Be sure to adjust seasonings to taste.
What can I do if I don't have picante sauce?
If you don't have picante sauce, you can substitute it with salsa or a mix of diced tomatoes and a bit of hot sauce for a similar kick. Adjust the quantity to your taste preference, keeping in mind that the spice level may vary with different sauces.
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).