Nancy'S Chicken Casserole
A creamy chicken casserole with crunchy almonds, fresh vegetables, and savory stuffing, perfect for family dinners or gatherings that enjoy comforting, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken until done, then let it cool.
- Shred the cooled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, chopped green pepper, chopped celery, diced onion, lemon juice, mayonnaise, dry stuffing, and sliced almonds.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle leftover stuffing crumbs on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the top is browned and sides are hot, about 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or substituting the cream of mushroom soup with a cream of chicken soup. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you're looking for a lighter option, try reducing the mayonnaise or using Greek yogurt instead. This dish can easily be adapted with different vegetables, such as peas or carrots, to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier dinner, consider serving it alongside Crackling Corn Bread. This dish also makes for delightful leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to avoid drying out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nancy'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 809 calories, with 24g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (49% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1053mg per serving (46% 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 it's best to thaw it first for even cooking. You can boil the frozen chicken directly, just ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This might extend your boiling time slightly, so keep an eye on it.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. When you're ready to cook, just pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the dry stuffing mix?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make your own stuffing using bread cubes, herbs, and spices. Alternatively, seasoned croutons or even cooked quinoa could work well as a substitute, adding a unique texture and flavor to the casserole.
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).