Simply Good Chicken Casserole
A comforting chicken casserole featuring tender chicken, creamy soups, and crunchy Ritz crackers, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put chicken in a large pot with water, 1 tsp. salt, and 1 tsp. pepper; bring to a boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 hour or until tender.
- Cool chicken slightly; skin, debone, and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, sour cream, and 1/2 tsp. pepper; stir well.
- Place half of crushed Ritz crackers in a lightly greased 11 x 7 x 1 1/2 inch baking dish.
- Spoon chicken mixture over the crackers.
- Top with remaining crackers and drizzle with butter.
- Bake at 325°F for 35 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the chicken mixture. If you don't have Ritz crackers, any buttery cracker will work. You can also substitute the cream soups with homemade versions for a healthier option. Adding vegetables like peas or carrots can enhance the nutrition and color of the casserole. This dish is perfect for using up leftover chicken or turkey.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside a side of Fast Fumi Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, add some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It's ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, offering comfort and satisfaction to all.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. For individual portions, microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simply Good Chicken Casserole contains roughly 714 calories, with 11g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), protein (23% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to increase the boiling time until the chicken is fully cooked. It's essential to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly compared to using fresh chicken.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cooked mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace the cream soups with plant-based alternatives. This variation will still be creamy and delicious, making it a great option for non-meat eaters.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the fridge. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknight dinners or 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).