Rich Chicken Casserole
A creamy, comforting chicken casserole with rice, celery, almonds, and a crunchy topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix together cooked chicken, cooked rice, chopped celery, grated onion, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, water chestnuts, and pimento in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle crushed cornflakes and slivered almonds evenly over the top.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding a cup of diced bell peppers or substituting Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise for a lighter option. If you prefer a crunchier topping, consider using crushed cornflakes or even crushed potato chips instead of slivered almonds. Make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, especially if you are using store-bought mayonnaise.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich chicken casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a more filling meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or buttery rolls. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and fits perfectly into any family gathering or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rich Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1361 calories, with 27g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 77g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), iron (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the casserole. Just make sure to shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Is there a vegetarian option for this casserole?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by replacing the chicken with cooked chickpeas or a mix of sautéed vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken soup, and consider adding some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
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).