Overnight Chicken Hot Dish

Prep: 10 min Cook: 90 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A creamy, hearty overnight chicken casserole with cheese, mushrooms, and eggs, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and easy preparation.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken
  • 7 ounces macaroni
  • 1/2 pound sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
  • 2 cans milk
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 1 can water chestnuts, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons minced onion
  • small amount pimento

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate overnight.
  2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, covering part of the time.
  3. Remove the cover during the last half hour to allow the top to brown.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the mixture. If you don't have sharp Cheddar, a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan can be a great substitute. For a twist, try adding cooked vegetables such as peas or bell peppers. Make sure the chicken is well-seasoned; leftover Chicken Breasts In Rice can work well here as a base.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish warm, garnished with chopped parsley or additional pimento for color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables like green beans. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread or alongside Corn-Broccoli Casserole for a comforting family dinner.

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 (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave portions, covering them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Overnight Chicken Hot Dish contains roughly 1205 calories, with 45g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (94% of the Daily Value), protein (91% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2077mg per serving (90% of the Daily Value).

1205 kcal 60% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 45.5g 91% DV
Total Fat 67.3g 86% DV
Carbs 107.5g 39% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 8g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2076.6mg 90% DV
Potassium 682.2mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 314.3mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 519.9mcg 58% DV
Vitamin C 2mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.8mcg 4% DV
Calcium 1216.8mg 94% DV
Iron 3.6mg 20% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk Egg

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 uncooked chicken in this recipe?

It's best to use cooked chicken to ensure the dish is fully cooked and safe to eat. If you only have raw chicken, consider cooking it first or use a rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, check the labels on the cream of mushroom soup for gluten-free options, or make your own using gluten-free ingredients.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. You could also serve with a spicy salsa on the side for those who want a little extra kick.

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).

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