Mary Alice'S Chicken Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole featuring creamy mushroom and onion flavors, topped with crispy Ritz crackers, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the boiled and deboned chicken in the bottom of a baking pan.
- Mix sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and onion soup mix; spread this mixture over the chicken.
- Crush one roll of Ritz crackers and evenly spread on top of the soup mixture.
- Dot the cracker layer with oleo (margarine or butter).
- Pour chicken broth over the crackers, then crush another roll of Ritz crackers and spread on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of boiled chicken. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option. If you prefer a crunchier topping, try adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to the Ritz crackers. This dish can be assembled a day ahead and baked just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting casserole with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Dorothy'S Chicken In Wine Sauce for a hearty dinner. For a more casual setting, consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Alice'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 254 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (11% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw and cook it before deboning. This ensures even cooking and better texture in your casserole.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and a plant-based cream substitute for the sour cream.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and extend the baking time by about 10 minutes.
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).