Nanny'S Chicken Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole featuring tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy, flavorful sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chicken breasts in margarine slowly until golden brown, adding chopped onion during cooking.
- Remove the chicken and place in a single layer in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Add sliced fresh mushrooms to the skillet and brown them, then scatter the mushrooms over the chicken.
- In the same pan, combine two cans of cream of celery soup, one can of milk, and 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce; cook until flavors are absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream in place of some milk. You can substitute the white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding some garlic or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Sautéing the mushrooms until they're golden adds a depth of flavor that complements the chicken nicely.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken casserole is best served hot and pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It also goes well with a glass of white wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole 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 retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nanny'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 629 calories, with 16g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 543mg per serving (24% 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 breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before browning. This will ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption. If you're short on time, you can also cook the chicken directly from frozen, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version with a roux, sautéed celery, and heavy cream. This will maintain the creaminess while still adding flavor. Alternatively, any creamy soup can work as a substitute.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to adjust the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prep or entertaining guests.
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).