Seven Layer Chicken Casserole
A comforting seven-layer casserole combining tender shredded chicken, broccoli, cheesy layers, and savory stuffing, perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare ahead.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken thighs until cooked through.
- Save 1 cup of the chicken broth from boiling.
- Shred the cooked chicken thighs and layer them on the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Grate half of the Cheddar cheese over the shredded chicken.
- Cook the Stove Top stuffing according to package directions.
- Layer the prepared stuffing over the cheese.
- Spread the thawed and drained chopped broccoli over the stuffing.
- Slice fresh (or canned) mushrooms and distribute over the broccoli.
- Mix the cream of mushroom soup with mayonnaise and spread evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese over the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until bubbly and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the mushroom soup mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. For a twist, incorporate ingredients like spinach or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition. This dish can be reminiscent of Old-Fashion Chicken N' Dressing.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a family-style gathering, consider offering a side of Asparagus And Rice to complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be careful not to overcook, as it can dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seven Layer Chicken Casserole contains roughly 296 calories, with 10g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A.
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 chicken instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or even cooked shredded chicken for a quicker preparation. Just ensure that the meat is moist enough to keep the casserole from drying out. Adjust cooking time if using different cuts to ensure they are fully cooked.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version by sautéing mushrooms, onions, and garlic in butter, then adding flour and chicken broth to thicken. This will give you a fresher flavor and control over the ingredients.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Prepare it up to the point of adding the cheese, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This is a great option for meal prepping.
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).