Scalloped Chicken
Scalloped Chicken is a comforting casserole that combines tender chicken with a creamy mushroom sauce, vibrant celery, and sweet mangoes, all layered between slices of bread. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt oleo in a skillet; add dry onions, celery, and mangoes.
- Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, mushroom soup, and the cooked mixture.
- Layer the mixture between slices of bread in a baking dish.
- Pour half and half over the top.
- Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F.
- Can freeze before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more savory flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary to the skillet while cooking the vegetables. If you don't have mangoes, you can substitute with diced apples or pears for a different sweetness. Using a hearty whole grain bread adds extra nutrition and texture to the dish. Ensure the chicken is shredded or cubed for even distribution throughout the layers.
Serving Suggestions
This scalloped chicken pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a comforting twist, serve with a side of mashed potatoes or rice to round out the dinner experience. It's perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the scalloped chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the dish before baking, allowing for easy meal prep.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scalloped Chicken contains roughly 148 calories, with 5g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 518mg per serving (23% 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 dish. Just shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients. This is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken from a previous meal.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this scalloped chicken healthier, opt for whole grain bread and low-fat or non-dairy mushroom soup. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding spinach or bell peppers to the mixture. Using a reduced-fat oleo or margarine is another way to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this scalloped chicken ahead of time! Assemble the dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you prefer to freeze it, prepare it without baking, then wrap it well and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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).