Mom'S Turkey Or Chicken Hot Dish
A comforting hot dish featuring seasoned croutons, tender turkey or chicken, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix croutons, melted margarine, and water together lightly. Pour half into a casserole dish.
- Combine chicken or turkey, chopped onion, mayonnaise, chopped celery, and salt.
- Layer the meat mixture over the first crouton layer in the casserole.
- Spread the remaining crouton mixture on top of the meat layer.
- Beat the eggs; add milk and mix well.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Cover with foil and bake at 325°F for 40 minutes.
- Uncover, sprinkle grated sharp Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using leftover pork or beef instead of chicken or turkey. You can also substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If you prefer, add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor. Make sure to keep an eye on the croutons during baking to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
Serving Suggestions
This hot dish is best served warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or extra green onion tops. Pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also goes well with crusty bread or biscuits, making it a hearty option for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be cautious not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Turkey Or Chicken Hot Dish contains roughly 885 calories, with 22g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (44% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1597mg 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 frozen chicken or turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cooked chicken or turkey, but make sure to thaw it completely before mixing it into the dish. This will help ensure even cooking and proper texture in the final dish.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the seasoned croutons with gluten-free bread or gluten-free croutons. Additionally, double-check that the mayonnaise you use is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
What can I do if I don't have eggs?
If you're out of eggs, you can substitute them with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of plain yogurt per egg. This will help bind the casserole together while keeping it moist.
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).