Waverly Chicken Casserole
A creamy, crunchy chicken casserole featuring water chestnuts and Waverly Wafers, perfect for comforting family dinners with savory flavors and a crispy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a pan with Waverly Wafer cracker crumbs.
- Add a layer of sliced water chestnuts followed by a layer of cooked chicken breasts.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream, then pour over the chicken layers.
- Cover the top with Waverly Wafer crumbs and dot with butter.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of shredded cheese into the mixture before baking. If you're short on Waverly Wafers, crushed saltines or any buttery cracker can serve as a substitute. To enhance flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the chicken layer. This casserole can easily be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Waverly Chicken Casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Mary'S Chicken Spaghetti for a delightful dinner spread. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the oven method helps maintain the texture of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waverly Chicken Casserole contains roughly 124 calories, with 5g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked?
While it's possible to use raw chicken, it requires longer baking time. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving. To save time, you can poach or grill the chicken beforehand.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you're looking for a healthier alternative, you can use homemade cream soups or a mixture of Greek yogurt and chicken broth. This will provide a similar creaminess without the preservatives found in canned soups.
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).