Mamma'S Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole featuring tender chicken in creamy soup sauces, topped with herb dressing and melted margarine, perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chicken until tender and then cool.
- Remove bones and place chicken in a baking dish.
- Mix cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and sour cream together.
- Pour the soup mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle Pepperidge Farm herb dressing on top of the soup mixture.
- Melt margarine and pour over the dressing.
- Brown the top of the casserole.
- Pour chicken broth over the casserole, then cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the chicken with garlic powder or herbs before cooking. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. For a crunchier topping, mix in some crushed crackers with the Pepperidge Farm herb dressing. This dish can also be adapted with leftover turkey for a post-holiday twist.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a side of Yummy Broccoli or a fresh green salad. For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or over rice. You can also explore similar flavors by trying other chicken recipes, such as Great Chicken And Rice Casserole, for variety.
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 for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring it stays covered to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mamma'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 513 calories, with 18g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1245mg per serving (54% 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 frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the casserole. This may require additional cooking time to ensure they are tender and fully cooked, making it easier to shred and incorporate into the dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soups, you can make a homemade version by whisking together equal parts chicken broth and heavy cream, thickening it with a roux made from butter and flour. This will maintain the creamy texture and flavor of the original recipe.
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).