Scratchey Dunkey
A hearty casserole combining tender chicken, creamy mushroom and chicken soups, fresh vegetables, and noodles, topped with bread crumbs and cheese for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken until done; then debone and cube.
- Cook noodles in chicken broth and drain.
- Brown onion, celery, and bell pepper in butter.
- Combine all cooked ingredients in a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 to 45 minutes.
- Approximately 5 minutes before removing from oven, add grated cheese on top if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, sauté garlic with the onions, celery, and bell pepper. You can substitute the cream soups with homemade versions using chicken broth and heavy cream for a fresher taste. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken works great instead of boiling and cubing your own chicken. Adjust the vegetables based on your preference; frozen mixed vegetables can also be used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of crusty bread or garlic bread complements the casserole nicely. For an extra touch, consider pairing it with a light white wine. This dish also pairs beautifully with Rosie'S Chicken Pot Pie for a comforting meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, but be sure to cover to retain moisture. Adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess when reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Scratchey Dunkey contains roughly 528 calories, with 16g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (97% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1295mg per serving (56% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the Scratchey Dunkey?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you don't have egg noodles, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or even cooked rice. Just adjust the cooking time as 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).