There’s just something about a classic, creamy chicken casserole. This recipe brings back those cozy feelings. It’s an easy, comforting dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
My family just loves this one. It’s a real crowd-pleaser. Plus, leftovers are even better. This chicken casserole is a true lifesaver.
Why I Love This Recipe
This chicken casserole truly steals my heart! It’s
- So quick to whip up: perfect for busy evenings.
- Pure comfort food: warm and satisfying every time.
- Kid-friendly: even picky eaters ask for more.
- Impressive for guests: yet unbelievably simple to make.
- It embodies everything I adore about home cooking.
Chicken Casserole Recipes Ingredients
Gathering the ingredients for this chicken casserole is like assembling a comfort dream team. Each item plays a crucial part. They all work together perfectly. It’s what makes this dish so good.
Core Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken: This is our star. It provides the hearty base. Using leftover chicken makes it super fast.
- Mayonnaise: It adds creaminess. Also, it binds everything together. Don’t skip this key ingredient!
- Celery: For a lovely crunch. It also offers a fresh taste.
- Minute Rice: This soaks up all the flavors. It adds a nice texture too.
- Slivered Almonds: They give a subtle nutty crunch. It’s a delightful surprise.
- Lemon Juice: Just a touch brightens the dish. It cuts through the richness.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: They add a unique tenderness. It’s a classic touch.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: This creates that classic creamy sauce. It’s pure comfort.
- Grated Onion: It brings a mild onion flavor. No big chunks here!
- Salt: Essential for seasoning. It brings out all the flavors.
- Corn Flakes Cereal: This makes the crispy topping. It’s buttery and golden.
- Butter: For combining with cereal. It creates a rich, crunchy crust.
Substitutions and Tips
- Rice Swap: Instead of minute rice, you can use regular cooked rice. Just make sure it’s two cups.
- Soup Options: You can use homemade cream of chicken soup. Or try other cream soups!
- Nutty Alternative: Pecans or walnuts can replace almonds. Use what you have!
- Crispy Topping: Crushed crackers work well too. Or even breadcrumbs!
- Spice It Up: A pinch of black pepper adds a little kick. Try some garlic powder!
- Green Goodness: Stir in some frozen peas. It adds color and veggies.
- Flavor Boost: A dash of dried herbs is nice. Thyme or parsley are great choices.
- Onion Trick: Grating the onion prevents a strong bite. It blends right in.
You’ll find the exact measurements in the recipe card below. Happy cooking!
How to Make Chicken Casserole Recipes
Making this chicken casserole is super easy. Just follow these steps. You’ll have a delicious meal in no time. It’s perfect for a quick family dinner. These traditional chicken casserole recipes are very simple!
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
First, get a big bowl. You’ll need plenty of space. Add the diced cooked chicken. Toss in the mayonnaise next. Then add the diced celery. After that, stir in the uncooked minute rice. Don’t forget the slivered almonds. A tiny bit of lemon juice goes in. Now, add the sliced hard-boiled eggs. Pour in the cream of chicken soup. Grate your onion right into the bowl. Finish with ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix all these things very well. Make sure everything is blended. This creates a creamy chicken casserole base.
Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Now, grab your casserole dish. Make sure it’s greased up. This stops sticking. Pour the mixture into the dish. Spread it out evenly. It should be a nice flat layer. In a separate small bowl, combine. Mix the crushed cornflakes and melted butter. This makes a crunchy topping. Sprinkle this buttery mixture. Spread it all over the casserole. Make sure it’s covered well. This golden topping is key. It makes a classic chicken casserole!
Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Once hot, place the dish inside. Bake for about 25 minutes. Watch the top closely. It should turn golden brown. The casserole will be bubbly. This means it’s hot through. A quick easy chicken casserole is ready. Let it cool a little. Then serve it up!
How to Store Chicken Casserole Recipes
Once your easy chicken casserole cools down, cover it tightly. Use plastic wrap or foil for this. You can pop it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, that’s great too. Just transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven. This chicken casserole is still so good!
Tips for Success
- Always use cooked chicken; it’s a huge time-saver.
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; gentle is best.
- Ensure your casserole dish is greased well.
- Taste the mixture before baking; adjust salt if needed.
- Crush cornflakes finely for an even crust.
- Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking.
- Adjust baking time for your oven.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining everything easily.
- Casserole Dish: A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient amounts.
- Grater: If you’re grating your own onion.
- Spatula or Large Spoon: For mixing and spreading.
- Small Bowl: To mix the cornflake topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad.
- Steamed green beans make a great side.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color.
- Crusty bread is perfect for dipping.
- A light white wine pairs beautifully.
- Enjoy with a simple fruit compote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Casserole Recipes ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can! Prepare the chicken and rice mixture as directed. Spread it in your greased casserole dish. Then, cover it tightly. Refrigerate until you are ready to bake. Add the cornflake topping just before baking. This makes for super easy meal prep!
What are some variations for Chicken Casserole Recipes?
Oh, there are so many! You could add some frozen mixed vegetables. Try a different cream soup, like mushroom. You can also swap the chicken for turkey. Even a little cheese could be added. This traditional chicken casserole is quite flexible!
How long does this chicken casserole last in the fridge?
Your delicious chicken casserole will last about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure it’s covered well. An airtight container works best. It’s perfect for tasty leftovers. Reheating it gently keeps it moist.
Can I use different types of rice in this chicken casserole?
Yes, you can! While minute rice is perfect, cooked regular rice also works. Just use 2 cups of cooked rice. Brown rice could also be used. This chicken casserole is quite adaptable.
Print
Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
This traditional chicken casserole recipe combines cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, minute rice, slivered almonds, lemon juice, hard-boiled eggs, cream of chicken soup, grated onion, and salt, topped with a buttery cornflake crust, then baked until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup minute rice, uncooked*
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
- 3 large eggs, hard boiled, sliced
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup (or homemade)
- 1 Tablespoon onion, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup corn flakes cereal, crushed
- 1 Tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl except for the cornflakes and butter.
- Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Mix crushed cornflakes and melted butter together. Sprinkle over casserole mixture.
- Bake at 375 degrees F for 25 minutes.
Notes
- Rice: could substitute 2 cups of cooked rice, instead of the minute rice.
- Make Ahead Instructions: Make the chicken/rice mixture, spread it in the pan, cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake this traditional Chicken Casserole, sprinkle the buttered cornflakes on top and bake as directed.
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
