Potluck Chicken Casserole
A creamy, comforting chicken casserole with tender meat topped with crunchy cracker crumbs, perfect for potlucks and family dinners, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked, cubed chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine cracker crumbs, melted butter, and celery seed.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and sweet pepper rings if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also use a rotisserie chicken for convenience. Adding veggies like peas or corn can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. If you want to spice it up, consider mixing in some hot sauce or jalapeños. This recipe is similar to Jessica'S Chicken but with a creamy twist.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with garlic bread or rice. If you're hosting a potluck, this dish is sure to be a hit, much like the classic Chicken Jambaloga. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes on high, making it a quick meal option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potluck Chicken Casserole contains roughly 186 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1338mg per serving (58% 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. You can cook it in the microwave or let it sit in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, cube and proceed with the recipe as usual.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you don't have cream of chicken soup, you can use homemade white sauce or a mixture of chicken broth and heavy cream. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup is a good substitute that still complements the dish well.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).