Margie'S Chicken Casserole
A creamy, crunchy chicken casserole with cheddar cheese and almonds, perfect for a comforting family meal or potluck, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together cooked chicken, diced celery, chopped onion, lemon juice, pepper, salt, and mayonnaise.
- Add slivered browned almonds to the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded Cheddar cheese and crushed potato chips.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Can be frozen for later use.
- When ready to serve, thaw thoroughly and heat through at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken or marinating the chicken in lemon juice before cooking. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version, or add a dash of garlic powder for extra taste. If you prefer a crunchier topping, replace potato chips with crushed tortilla chips or panko breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Margie's Chicken Casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs well with buttery dinner rolls or garlic bread. For a complete spread, consider offering sides like rice or quinoa, which are great for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, and it can last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margie'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 768 calories, with 27g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (229% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and protein (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1410mg per serving (61% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can save time on busy days.
What can I use instead of celery?
If you're not a fan of celery, diced bell peppers or mushrooms can be great alternatives, adding a different texture and flavor. You could also incorporate spinach for a nutritious twist.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Ensure to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors, and keep the other ingredients the same for a delicious alternative.
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).