Chicken-Almond Casserole
Chicken-Almond Casserole Recipe - Easy and Delicious
Introduction
This Chicken-Almond Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and creamy mushroom sauce makes for a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
History
The origins of the Chicken-Almond Casserole are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. Casseroles became popular during this time as a convenient and economical way to feed a family, and this recipe quickly became a favorite due to its simple ingredients and delicious flavor.
Ingredients
- 0.33 cup slivered almonds
- 2 tbsp butter or margarine
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 cup sliced green onions
- 1 4 oz (113 g) can sliced mushrooms (drained; reserve liquid)
- 2 cup milk
- 2 10-0.75 oz (21 g) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cup chopped cooked chicken
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
- 0.25 tsp thyme
How to prepare
- Cook almonds in butter until lightly browned in a 10-inch skillet. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Stir in rice, onions, and mushrooms; continue cooking for 2 minutes, stirring often.
- Add milk, soup, mushroom liquid, chicken, salt, pepper, thyme, and almonds. Heat to boiling.
- Turn into a buttered 2.5 qt (473 ml) casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 375°F (191°C) for 45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Variations
- Substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add in your favorite herbs or spices for extra flavor.
- Use different types of nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for a unique twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to toast the almonds in butter before adding them to the casserole. This will enhance their flavor and give them a nice crunch.
- Make sure to cook the rice, onions, and mushrooms before adding the other ingredients. This will help to develop the flavors and ensure that the rice cooks evenly.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs. You can also use different types of nuts or cheeses for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken-Almond Casserole pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe uses a combination of stovetop cooking and baking to ensure that the casserole is cooked through and the flavors are well-developed.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have almonds, you can use another type of nut or omit them altogether. You can also use different types of mushrooms or vegetables in place of the ones listed in the recipe.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. Simply cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs or additional toasted almonds for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This Chicken-Almond Casserole pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this Chicken-Almond Casserole contains approximately 350 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of this Chicken-Almond Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of this Chicken-Almond Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of this Chicken-Almond Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
This casserole is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
This recipe contains almonds, milk, and wheat (from the condensed cream of mushroom soup), which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Overall, this Chicken-Almond Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
This Chicken-Almond Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. With its creamy mushroom sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy almonds, it is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Mary at her house. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, the delicious aroma of Chicken-Almond Casserole wafted through the air, tempting my taste buds.
Mary smiled and handed me a plate filled with a generous portion of the casserole. I took a bite and immediately fell in love with the dish. The tender chicken, crunchy almonds, creamy sauce, and flavorful seasonings all blended together perfectly in every mouthful. I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.
I asked Mary for the recipe, but she told me it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. Disappointed, I resigned myself to never tasting that delicious casserole again. But as luck would have it, Mary’s grandmother, Mrs. Jenkins, overheard our conversation and offered to teach me how to make it.
Mrs. Jenkins was a sweet old woman with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. She invited me to her house the following week to learn the recipe. When I arrived, she greeted me with a hug and led me into her cozy kitchen. The smell of the casserole filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.
Mrs. Jenkins began by showing me how to season the chicken with a blend of herbs and spices. She explained that the key to a flavorful casserole was to marinate the chicken for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. As the chicken sat in the marinade, she toasted the almonds in a skillet until they were golden brown and fragrant.
Next, Mrs. Jenkins taught me how to make the creamy sauce that would bind the casserole together. She whisked together chicken broth, cream, and a touch of flour until the sauce thickened and coated the back of a spoon. She then added a splash of white wine for a hint of acidity and depth of flavor.
Once all the components were ready, Mrs. Jenkins assembled the casserole in a baking dish. She layered the marinated chicken, toasted almonds, and creamy sauce, making sure to spread each ingredient evenly throughout the dish. She covered the casserole with foil and placed it in the oven to bake until the chicken was cooked through and the sauce was bubbling.
As the casserole baked, Mrs. Jenkins regaled me with stories of her family and the origins of the recipe. She told me that the recipe had been passed down from her grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. Each generation had put their own twist on the dish, but the basic ingredients and technique remained the same.
When the casserole was finally ready, Mrs. Jenkins pulled it out of the oven and set it on the table. The tantalizing aroma filled the room, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. Mrs. Jenkins served me a generous portion, and as soon as I took a bite, I knew I had mastered the recipe.
From that day on, Chicken-Almond Casserole became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tried it. I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had learned such a delicious and cherished recipe from Mrs. Jenkins.
As the years passed, I continued to make Chicken-Almond Casserole, passing the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren. It became a symbol of family tradition and love, connecting us to our past and bringing us together around the dinner table.
To this day, whenever I make Chicken-Almond Casserole, I think of Mrs. Jenkins and the special bond we shared over that humble dish. It reminds me of the power of food to bring people together, create memories, and preserve traditions. And I am forever grateful for the day I first saw that recipe and was hooked.
Categories
| Almond Recipes | American Recipes | Chicken Recipes | Main Dish Poultry Recipes | Mushroom Recipes | Rice Recipes |