Presbyterian Chicken
A comforting casserole combining tender chicken, seasoned bread cubes, and aromatic herbs, baked to perfection. Ideal for family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the whole chicken with water in a large pot.
- Add salt and celery stalks to the water and cook until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken from broth, strain and set aside; discard celery.
- Season the cubed bread with sage, thyme, and white pepper.
- Layer the cooked chicken, cut into small pieces, with the seasoned bread cubes in a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch casserole dish.
- Dot the layered mixture with butter.
- Pour the strained broth from the chicken over the casserole.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour until heated through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using day-old bread for better texture and absorption of the broth. You can substitute the herbs with Italian seasoning or use leftover rotisserie chicken if you're short on time. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a can of cream of chicken soup with the broth before baking. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Presbyterian Chicken with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Aunt Connie'S Stew for a comforting dinner spread. Consider adding a side of mashed potatoes or a light coleslaw to round out the meal. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave in individual portions, but be careful not to overheat to keep the bread from becoming soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Presbyterian Chicken contains roughly 75 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1223mg per serving (53% 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 chicken thighs instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or any preferred cuts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as smaller pieces will cook faster. Be sure to check that the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
What can I do with leftover broth?
You can use leftover broth in various ways! It makes a great base for soups or sauces. Alternatively, freeze it in ice cube trays for easy use in future recipes, such as Chicken And Vegetable A La Grands! or other chicken recipes.
Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
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).