Sausage Chicken Casserole
A hearty sausage and chicken casserole with crunchy almonds, tender rice, and flavorful vegetables, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble and brown the sausage in a skillet.
- Drain off the fat from the sausage.
- Add chopped green pepper, onion, and celery; sauté until crisp-tender.
- Combine the Ramen chicken noodle mix, rice, and boiling water in a saucepan.
- Cook for 20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Add the cooked sausage mixture and the cubed cooked chicken; stir to combine.
- Drizzle with melted butter over the mixture.
- Sprinkle with slivered almonds and cover the casserole.
- Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian or spicy sausage instead of bulk sausage. You can substitute the green pepper with chopped mushrooms or zucchini for a different twist. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a can of cream of chicken soup to the mixture before baking. Ensure the rice is well-cooked to avoid any crunchiness in the final dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to be a stand-alone dish but pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of crusty bread can complement the flavors and help soak up any delicious juices. For a variation, serve it alongside the Quick Chicken And Vegetable Stew for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F, covering it with foil to retain moisture, and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Chicken Casserole contains roughly 1644 calories, with 57g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (113% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and iron (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D. 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 chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly in this casserole. Just make sure to cube it into small pieces for even distribution. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience, making this dish a great option for using up leftovers.
Is there a gluten-free option for the Ramen noodles?
Yes, you can find gluten-free Ramen noodles made from rice or other gluten-free grains. Alternatively, you could replace the Ramen with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles, but adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked properly.
Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold. This makes it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeknights.
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).