Tomato Chicken Casserole
A hearty, cheesy chicken casserole with tender deboned chicken, savory tomatoes, peas, and melted Velveeta, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the whole stewing chicken in enough water to cover; remove and debone the chicken.
- Saute chopped onion and sweet pepper in butter until tender.
- Stir in Velveeta cheese, drained peas, and stewed tomatoes into the onion and pepper mixture.
- Combine the deboned chicken with the tomato mixture in a large casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the cheese mixture. If you don't have Velveeta, a blend of cream cheese and cheddar can be a great substitute. To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of boiling and deboning a whole chicken. Experiment with additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato Chicken Casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside seasoned rice or quinoa. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top just before serving can enhance the dish's flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Chicken Casserole contains roughly 333 calories, with 4g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1974mg per serving (86% 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 other types of cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, you can substitute Velveeta with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make the casserole healthier, consider using skinless chicken pieces and adding more vegetables like spinach or broccoli. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese options to cut down on calories.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).