Mildred'S Chicken Casserole
A creamy, comforting casserole that blends buttery dressing, tender chicken and savory soups into a golden, hearty bake—perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine 1 stick of margarine with 1 package of Pepperidge Farm dressing and place about half in a casserole dish.
- Add the boiled and deboned chicken, 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 can of celery soup, and 2 cups of chicken broth to the dish and stir well.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the dressing in the dish.
- Spread the remaining dressing over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 1½ hours at 350°F until bubbling and golden.
- Let rest briefly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a lighter dish, use low-sodium chicken broth and reduced-fat soups. Experiment with adding vegetables like peas or carrots to enhance the nutrition and flavor profile, similar to what you might find in Pat'S Vegetable Soup.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For a heartier side, try pairing it with American recipes like cornbread or a side of roasted potatoes for a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mildred'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 798 calories, with 4g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1592mg per serving (69% 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 rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor to the dish. Just make sure to shred the chicken and remove any skin before adding it to the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking point, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Can I freeze the chicken casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once baked and cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through, or reheat directly from frozen, adjusting the baking time accordingly.
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).