One Dish Chicken Casserole
A hearty and comforting chicken casserole with peas, carrots, and macaroni, perfect for family dinners and satisfying with creamy flavors and tender chicken pieces.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken until well done, then remove all skin and bones. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Heat the sweet peas until warmed through. Re-warm cooked carrots and set aside.
- Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, peas, carrots, and macaroni.
- Stir in the evaporated milk and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, until heated through and slightly browned on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary into the casserole mixture. If you prefer a creamier texture, substitute half of the evaporated milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers or corn for more variety. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots. You can also sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor. Consider browsing more American recipes for additional ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Dish Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1451 calories, with 24g protein, 235g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (192% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1239mg per serving (54% 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 vegetables instead of canned?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen vegetables in this casserole. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dish to avoid excess moisture. This is a great way to add more nutrients and flavors while keeping the recipe convenient.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make this chicken casserole healthier, you can use whole grain elbow macaroni instead of regular pasta and opt for low-fat evaporated milk. Additionally, you can increase the vegetable content by adding more cooked carrots, peas, or even spinach for added nutrition.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prep or entertaining.
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).