Quick And Easy Chicken
A creamy, comforting chicken casserole with mushroom soup, water chestnuts, and a crispy stuffing topping, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or family gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cooked, diced chicken, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, diced celery, sliced water chestnuts, and half of the melted margarine in a casserole dish.
- Mix the ingredients well and spread evenly in the dish.
- Combine the remaining melted margarine with the Pepperidge Farm cornbread stuffing.
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier consistency, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also add spices such as garlic powder or paprika to enhance the flavor. If you want a crunchier topping, try mixing in some crushed crackers with the cornbread stuffing. For a healthier twist, substitute boneless chicken breasts with shredded rotisserie chicken, which cuts down on prep time.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad to balance the richness. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice, which complements the flavors well. For a vegetarian option, explore American recipes that feature hearty vegetable casseroles.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but for best results, cover with a damp paper towel to keep the casserole moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Chicken contains roughly 1847 calories, with 4g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 196g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1899mg per serving (83% 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 other types of soup in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer a different flavor. Each variation will provide a unique twist to the dish while keeping the creamy texture intact.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a day before cooking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and allow it to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 2 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
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).