Nellie'S Chicken Casserole
A hearty chicken casserole with crunchy nuts, tender vegetables, and a savory mushroom sauce, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together, saving some Chinese noodles for topping.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with the reserved noodles.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you have leftover roasted chicken, it works perfectly in this recipe. You can substitute the cashew nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the flavor, and for a twist, incorporate some frozen peas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside rice or the Jalapeno Pepper Rice Casserole for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but they may not retain the same texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nellie'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1231 calories, with 38g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value), iron (71% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1642mg per serving (71% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it first for even cooking. If using frozen, consider cooking it separately until done before adding to the casserole mixture to ensure it cooks thoroughly.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple white sauce by combining butter, flour, and stock, then adding sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, a can of Cheese And Vegetable Soup can be used for a cheesy twist.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Nellie’s Chicken Casserole vegetarian, replace the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for more texture and flavor.
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).