Lucy'S Chicken Casserole
Creamy, comforting chicken casserole with noodles, peas, carrots, and melted cheeses, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked chicken, cooked noodles in chicken broth, cooked carrots (with juice), peas, Velveeta cheese, and cream cheese in a baking dish.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
- Serve hot, or freeze for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to the mixture before baking. If you don't have Velveeta cheese, you can substitute it with shredded cheddar cheese for a different flavor. Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or green beans, which are common in American recipes. Ensure that the noodles are not overcooked before combining, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with Microwave Broccoli Chicken for a complete meal. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place servings in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lucy'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1397 calories, with 30g protein, 167g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1596mg per serving (69% 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 instead of cooked chicken?
It's best to use cooked chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking and flavor. If you prefer using uncooked chicken, cook it separately before adding it to the casserole, or consider using a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. These alternatives will give a similar creamy texture while reducing calories. Just ensure that they are well-blended to avoid lumps.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven; it may require an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).