Ozark Chicken Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender chicken, rice, eggs, and creamy soup topped with buttery stuffing, perfect for family dinners and crowd gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chicken, rice, lemon juice, celery, onion, mayonnaise, eggs, cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper thoroughly and place in a greased casserole dish.
- Mix melted butter with stuffing mix and sprinkle evenly on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier casserole, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can substitute cooked quinoa for rice for a healthier option, or use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add a nice touch of flavor. Pair this dish with a side salad for balance.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ozark Chicken Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or dinner rolls. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ozark Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1122 calories, with 10g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and iron (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2493mg per serving (108% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole to ensure even baking.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make the casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ensure your stuffing mix is also gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the same flavors without the gluten.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as instructed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).