Deluxe Chicken Casserole

Deluxe Chicken Casserole Recipe - An All-Time Favorite American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Deluxe Chicken Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. This casserole is packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy mushroom soup, all baked together for a satisfying meal.

History

The origins of the Deluxe Chicken Casserole recipe are unclear, but casseroles have been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. This particular recipe likely evolved from the classic chicken and rice casserole, with added vegetables and seasonings for extra flavor.

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked rice (cooked in chicken broth)
2 cups of cooked chicken chunks
1 x 16 oz (454 g) can of French-style green beans, drained
0.5 cup of chopped red pepper, steamed
0.5 cup of chopped onion, steamed
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of ground black pepper
1 x 10.75 oz (305 g) can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
0.5 cup of chicken broth

How to prepare

Combine rice, chicken, green beans, red pepper, onion, salt, pepper, soup, and broth in a buttered 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until the dish is hot and bubbly.

Variations

Swap out the chicken for turkey or ham for a different flavor.
Use different cream soups, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery, for a variation.
Add cooked rice or pasta to make the casserole heartier.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the chicken and vegetables before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender and fully cooked.

- You can use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for this recipe to save time.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this casserole to suit your preferences. Peas, carrots, or broccoli would all be delicious additions.

- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the casserole before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Deluxe Chicken Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs well with a crusty bread or dinner rolls.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the casserole allows all the flavors to meld together and creates a comforting, warm dish that is perfect for cooler weather.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any cooked protein in place of chicken, such as turkey, ham, or tofu.

- Substitute any cream soup for the cream of mushroom soup, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery.

- Use any combination of vegetables you prefer in place of the green beans, red pepper, and onion.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve the casserole in a decorative baking dish for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Deluxe Chicken Casserole pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with sparkling water or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Deluxe Chicken Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Deluxe Chicken Casserole contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Deluxe Chicken Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Deluxe Chicken Casserole contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Deluxe Chicken Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This casserole is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream of mushroom soup) and gluten (if using breadcrumbs or crackers as a topping).

Summary

Deluxe Chicken Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Deluxe Chicken Casserole is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. Packed with tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy mushroom soup, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning vibrant shades of red and gold, and there was a slight chill in the air that hinted at the coming winter. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious home-cooked meals.

As soon as I walked into Margaret's cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of roasting chicken. "I hope you're hungry," Margaret said with a twinkle in her eye. "I'm making my famous Deluxe Chicken Casserole for dinner tonight."

I watched in awe as Margaret effortlessly prepared the casserole, layering tender chunks of chicken with sautéed vegetables, creamy mushroom soup, and a generous sprinkling of sharp cheddar cheese. As the casserole baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with its irresistible scent, Margaret shared the story behind the recipe.

"I learned to make this casserole from my grandmother," Margaret explained. "She used to make it for our family gatherings, and it was always a huge hit. Over the years, I've added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating different herbs and spices to make it truly my own."

As we sat down to dinner that evening, I took my first bite of Margaret's Deluxe Chicken Casserole and was immediately transported back to my childhood. The flavors were rich and comforting, the chicken tender and juicy, and the cheese melted to perfection. It was a meal that warmed both body and soul, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

The next day, Margaret graciously shared her recipe with me, walking me through each step and offering tips and tricks to ensure that my casserole turned out just as delicious as hers. I took copious notes, scribbling down every detail and ingredient, determined to master the art of making Deluxe Chicken Casserole.

Over the following weeks, I practiced making the casserole, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own taste. I experimented with different vegetables, herbs, and seasonings, discovering the perfect combination that made the flavors sing. Each time I made the casserole, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that I was carrying on the tradition that Margaret's grandmother had started so many years ago.

As the years went by, Deluxe Chicken Casserole became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I passed it down to my own children, who now make it for their families, creating new memories and traditions of their own.

To this day, whenever I make Deluxe Chicken Casserole, I can't help but think of Margaret and her grandmother, two incredible women who passed down a recipe that has brought so much joy and comfort to those who have tasted it. It's a dish that embodies love, tradition, and the power of good food to bring people together.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a warm and hearty meal that will satisfy both your hunger and your soul, look no further than Deluxe Chicken Casserole. Just remember to take your time, savor each bite, and appreciate the memories and stories that make each dish truly special.