Potluck Chicken Casserole
Originally published as Potluck Chicken Casserole in Taste of Home October/November 1996, p37 Folks go back for seconds of this meal-in-one casserole with its down-home flavor, rich sauce, and golden topping. I always bring home an empty dish. -Ruth Andrewson, Leavenworth, Washington
Originally published as Potluck Chicken Casserole in Taste of Home October/November 1996, p37 Folks go back for seconds of this meal-in-one casserole with its down-home flavor, rich sauce, and golden topping. I always bring home an empty dish. -Ruth Andrewson, Leavenworth, Washington
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas thawed
- 1 cup celery chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 4 cups cooked chicken cubed
- 1/2 cup fresh mushrooms chopped
- 3 tablespoons onion finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter divided
- 1-1/4 cups milk
- 3 cups long grain rice cooked
- 2 oz diced pimientos drained
- 3/4 cup cornflakes coarsely crushed
- Carbohydrate 66.0839623200466 g
- Cholesterol 143.349062513198 mg
- Fat 39.7135170259475 g
- Fiber 2.80933151899655 g
- Protein 38.7170620480694 g
- Saturated Fat 17.1085039116077 g
- Serving Size 1 1 - (412g)
- Sodium 574.617664481763 mg
- Sugar 63.27463080105 g
- Trans Fat 8.7626240856221 g
- Calories 778 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large saucepan, saute mushrooms and onion in 3 tablespoons butter until tender.
- Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer.
- Stir in flour until blended.
- Gradually add milk; bring to a boil.
- Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened and bubbly.
- Remove from the heat; stir in mayonnaise until smooth.
- Add the chicken, rice, celery, peas, pimientos, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer to an ungreased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish.
- Melt remaining butter; toss with cornflakes.
- Sprinkle over top.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly.
Potluck Chicken Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic
As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present challenge of putting a healthy and delicious dinner on the table. That's why I rely heavily on recipes that are both easy to make and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. This Potluck Chicken Casserole fits the bill perfectly. It's a dish that I've made countless times, and it never fails to impress. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying crunch of the cornflake topping make it a true comfort food classic.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. There's no complicated chopping or tedious techniques involved. You can easily prep the ingredients while catching up on emails or helping with homework. The cooking time is minimal too, ensuring that dinner is ready just in time for the family to gather around the table. Plus, leftovers are fantastic, making it a perfect meal-prep option for busy schedules. This dish has become my go-to for potlucks, family gatherings, and even just a cozy weeknight dinner. It's consistently a hit with everyone, from my picky eaters to my most sophisticated guests.
I love how adaptable this recipe is. Feel free to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. Different types of rice, vegetables, or even cheeses can easily be incorporated. I've experimented with adding shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Sometimes I’ll use leftover roasted chicken instead of cooking it from scratch—a true time-saver! The possibilities are endless! The key is to have fun with it and make it your own.
This casserole also excels as a make-ahead dish. You can assemble the casserole a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve. This feature is incredibly valuable for busy lifestyles. It's perfect for planning ahead for busy weeks or prepping for upcoming events. No more last-minute dinner scrambles!
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this casserole holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of simpler times, of family gatherings where food was the centerpiece of joy and connection. The aroma of the baking casserole always brings back warm memories, making this more than just a meal; it's a taste of home, a bridge to the past, and a comforting presence in the midst of my hectic life. It’s a dish that truly nourishes the body and soul.
Pro-tip: For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning. Another suggestion is to use panko bread crumbs instead of cornflakes for a different textural experience. The possibilities are endless.
So, the next time you're looking for a simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing meal, give this Potluck Chicken Casserole a try. It’s a recipe that I’m sure will become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. It’s a testament to the fact that even the busiest among us can enjoy the pleasure of a home-cooked meal that’s both easy and extraordinary.
