Mickey'S Chicken Casserole
A creamy chicken casserole with tender cooked chicken, green peppers, and Parmesan cheese, topped with macaroni and baked to perfection—ideal comfort food for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix cooked chicken, chicken gravy, chopped green pepper, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Arrange cooked macaroni on top of the chicken mixture.
- Dot with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the casserole and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the chicken mixture. You can substitute the cooked macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, or even use quinoa for a healthier option. Adding some sautéed mushrooms or cooked broccoli can enhance the flavor and nutrition of this dish. For extra richness, try using a mix of cheeses instead of just Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Hash Brown Potatoes Casserole for a comforting dinner. For a more casual gathering, offer some crusty bread or garlic knots on the side. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mickey'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 154 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2222mg per serving (97% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked?
Using raw chicken is not recommended for this casserole, as it requires pre-cooked chicken to ensure it cooks evenly and thoroughly in the baking process. If you have raw chicken, cook it first by boiling or sautéing before adding it to the recipe.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze Mickey's Chicken Casserole before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if still cold.
What can I add for more flavor?
To boost the flavor, consider adding garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the chicken mixture. A splash of hot sauce or some shredded cheese can also elevate the taste. Experimenting with different seasonings can make this casserole uniquely yours.
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).