Julie'S Chicken Casserole
Creamy chicken casserole with stuffing, mushrooms, celery, and melted cheese, topped with Ritz crackers for crunch—perfect comfort food for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spray the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan with cooking spray.
- Cook the stovetop stuffing according to package instructions and layer it on the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Drain the cans of chicken and spread the chicken over the stuffing.
- Mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, and sour cream.
- Spread the soup and sour cream mixture over the chicken layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
- Bake the casserole for 40 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle additional shredded cheese and Ritz crackers on top.
- Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the crackers are browned and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or celery with the chicken before layering. You can also substitute the canned chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a fresher taste. If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream. Don't forget to check out other American recipes for similar comforting dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You could also serve it alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the creamy sauce. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of the Hot Chicken Salad Appetizer for a complete chicken-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven will keep the Ritz crackers crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Julie'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 791 calories, with 17g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1135mg per serving (49% 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 chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded chicken instead of canned. Just ensure it's well-seasoned. Cooked chicken breasts or thighs can be sautéed and then added to the dish, creating a fresher flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can make a homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, and milk. Alternatively, a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth can also work well, giving you a creamy texture without the canned soups.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).