Mary Lou'S Chicken Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole with creamy cheese, tender vegetables, and crunchy cracker topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you don't have Velveeta cheese, a combination of cheddar and cream cheese can work as a great substitute. You can also add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra flavor. Make sure to chop the celery and onion finely for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect served with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also pair it with garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a twist, serve alongside the Chicken Noodle Scallop for a fun family dinner that highlights chicken recipes. Everyone will enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Lou'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 302 calories, with 9g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1296mg per serving (56% 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 leftover chicken for this casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken can be used, which will save you time in the kitchen. Just ensure it's diced into uniform pieces to ensure even mixing and heating. This is a great way to repurpose leftovers without compromising flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature before baking to ensure it cooks evenly.
What can I serve with Mary Lou's Chicken Casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fluffy rice or a fresh garden salad. You could also complement it with steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition. If you're looking for more ideas, check out the Broccoli, Rice, Chicken & Cheese Casserole for a delightful variation.
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).