Scalloped Chicken Casserole
Creamy, comforting scalloped chicken casserole combines tender chicken, mushrooms, and cheese topped with golden bread crumbs, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and cubed processed American cheese.
- Add the cooked, chopped chicken or turkey, cooked macaroni, and chopped hard-cooked eggs.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of melted margarine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Let set in the refrigerator for a while for best results.
- Toss the bread crumbs with the remaining margarine.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 60 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or substituting half of the milk with sour cream. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for added flavor. If you're looking for a lighter version, swap the processed cheese with a low-fat cheese blend. Enhance the dish with a sprinkle of garlic powder or fresh herbs like thyme.
Serving Suggestions
This scalloped chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added crunch, serve with crusty bread or garlic toast. It's a great dish for family gatherings and can be complemented with a side of roasted potatoes or a light soup. Explore more American recipes for a hearty dinner.
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 for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Chicken Casserole contains roughly 752 calories, with 16g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1151mg per serving (50% 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 cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the processed cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting characteristics may vary, so choose cheeses that melt well.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free macaroni and ensure that your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well. You can also substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the bread crumb topping just before baking to keep it crispy. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
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).