Kim'S Chicken Casserole
Kim's Chicken Casserole is a comforting baked dish combining tender chicken, creamy mushroom soup, tangy sour cream, and crunchy water chestnuts, topped with melted cheddar cheese and golden bread crumbs. Perfect for family dinners, it offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine bite-sized pieces of chicken, cream of mushroom soup, water, chopped onion, and water chestnuts in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 12-inch glass baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Add bread crumbs on top of the cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding some garlic powder or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the chicken mixture. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different taste. If you prefer a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. For added crunch, try using panko bread crumbs in place of regular ones.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or over rice. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, making it a great choice alongside other comforting chicken recipes like Cheesy Chicken Tetrazzini.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kim'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 290 calories, with 11g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 530mg per serving (23% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked?
It's best to use cooked chicken for this recipe to ensure it cooks evenly and thoroughly. However, if you prefer using raw chicken, you can bake it in the casserole for about 45-50 minutes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, simply remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the refrigerator.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Additionally, you could use cream cheese, but ensure it’s softened to mix well with the other ingredients.
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).