Tapp'S Chicken Casserole
A creamy chicken casserole with crunchy topping, combining tender diced chicken, rice, water chestnuts, and almonds, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix cooked, diced chicken, diced celery, cooked rice, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, sliced water chestnuts, and sliced toasted almonds in a bowl.
- Add half a can of chicken broth and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with crushed corn flakes and pour melted margarine over the top.
- Cover the casserole and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also substitute the water chestnuts with diced bell peppers for added color and crunch. If you want to spice it up, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite herbs. This casserole is a great way to use leftover chicken from dishes like Bistro Chicken or Lemon-Garlic Chicken Barbecue.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside some crusty bread for a hearty touch. For a fun twist, you can top it with fresh herbs or serve with a side of Classic Chicken And Grape Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, ensuring they are warm all the way through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tapp'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 987 calories, with 14g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (83% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (79% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1809mg per serving (79% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it fully before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the casserole. You can poach the chicken or use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole as directed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute cream of chicken soup with homemade cream sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor. For a lighter version, try using a mix of chicken broth and a bit of milk or cream, thickened with cornstarch.
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).