Upper Crust Chicken
Upper Crust Chicken is a comforting casserole combining tender cooked chicken, crispy bread crusts, and melted sharp cheddar cheese. Flavored with celery, mayonnaise, and seasonings, it's perfect for a family dinner or potluck, offering a hearty, cheesy, and savory dish with a satisfying texture and flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim the crust from the bread slices, reserving the crusts.
- Cut the bread slices diagonally into quarters.
- Cut the reserved crusts into cubes.
- Combine bread cubes, chopped cooked chicken, celery slices, and 1 3/4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese; mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into an 11 3/4 x 7 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Arrange the bread quarters over the chicken mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, eggs, salt, and poultry seasoning; mix well.
- Gradually add milk to the mayonnaise mixture, mixing until blended.
- Pour the milk mixture over the bread in the dish.
- Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
- Garnish with celery leaves, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using leftover rotisserie chicken. If you want a lighter version, swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. Day-old bread is perfect as it absorbs the mixture without turning mushy. You can also add vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. If you have it, a sprinkle of garlic powder can enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside hash brown potatoes casserole. Garnish with celery leaves for a pop of color and freshness. It also works well with a side of cranberry sauce for a tangy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. For best results, avoid microwaving as it can make the dish soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Upper Crust Chicken contains roughly 659 calories, with 16g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (70% of the Daily Value), calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1600mg per serving (70% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar adds a distinct flavor, you can substitute with Monterey Jack or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the final taste and texture slightly.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Upper Crust Chicken gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure your mayonnaise is certified gluten-free. Most shredded cheeses are gluten-free, but it's always good to check the labels. The dish will still be delicious and satisfying.
Is there a way to prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
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).