Lunchtime Tuna Or Chicken Casserole
A quick, savory casserole combining tender chicken or tuna with vegetables and melted cheese, perfect for a satisfying lunch that's easy to prepare and flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onion and celery in chicken broth in the microwave on High until tender. Add garlic salt, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
- Crumble the toasted diet bread and add it along with the cooked chicken or tuna into the broth mixture. Mix well.
- Top the mixture with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Microwave for 5 minutes or bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream to the broth mixture before combining with the bread and protein. If you're out of chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water will work in a pinch. Experiment with different seasonings like onion powder or paprika for added flavor, resembling some comforting American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a bowl of Cheesy Broccoli Noodle Soup for a comforting lunch experience. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, which helps to maintain the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lunchtime Tuna Or Chicken Casserole contains roughly 797 calories, with 33g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (67% of the Daily Value), protein (65% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1156mg per serving (50% 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 canned tuna for this recipe?
Yes, canned tuna works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the mixture. It's a convenient option that saves time while still providing great flavor.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the chicken or tuna with cooked beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add in extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time for best results.
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).