Overnight Scalloped Chicken Casserole
Overnight Scalloped Chicken Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish featuring tender chicken and macaroni enveloped in a rich sauce of mushroom soup and cheese. Perfect for busy families, this make-ahead meal is ideal for potlucks or weeknight dinners, offering a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine soup, milk, and cheese.
- Add chicken or turkey, macaroni, and eggs.
- Stir in 1/4 cup melted butter. Transfer to a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
- Toss the bread crumbs with remaining butter.
- Sprinkle over casserole.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 60 to 65 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider swapping out Velveeta for cream cheese or adding a splash of sour cream. If you're short on time, cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly in place of homemade chicken. You can also use gluten-free macaroni to accommodate dietary restrictions. For a flavor twist, add herbs like thyme or basil. This dish can be made ahead, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the scalloped chicken casserole warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it alongside warm bread rolls or a light soup. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture. This casserole is often even better the next day!
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Scalloped Chicken Casserole contains roughly 796 calories, with 20g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 763mg per serving (33% 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 a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the macaroni with other pasta types such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose, ensuring it's cooked al dente before combining it with the other ingredients.
Can I freeze the scalloped chicken casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just prepare it up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?
Certainly! You can use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese to lighten it up. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables like broccoli or spinach can increase the nutritional value while adding flavor and texture to the dish.
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).