Divine Comfort: Chicken Salad Casserole

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Chicken Salad Casserole, a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. This delightful recipe combines tender chicken breasts, creamy soups, and savory stuffing mix to create a mouthwatering casserole that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this beloved classic.

Ingredients:

Prepare to delight your taste buds with these essential ingredients:

3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed celery soup
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
10.5 fluid ounces milk
6 oz container of cornbread stuffing mix with seasonings
1 3/4 cups chicken stock
2 stalks celery, chopped
1/2 cup sliced onion

Instructions:

Let’s embark on the culinary journey of creating this savory Chicken Salad Casserole:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks.
Prepare Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed celery soup, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, cornbread stuffing mix, chicken stock, chopped celery, sliced onion, and shredded chicken. Mix until well combined.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
Finish Cooking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Enhance your culinary experience with these helpful tips and creative variations:

Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole before baking for an extra cheesy touch.
Vegetable Variation: Add diced carrots, peas, or bell peppers to the casserole mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage to the casserole mixture for a burst of aromatic flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Let’s address some common queries about Chicken Salad Casserole:

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time. Simply shred the cooked chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking.

Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly? A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: Can I make a keto-friendly version of this casserole? A: Yes, you can make a keto-friendly version by substituting the cornbread stuffing mix with a keto-friendly bread or almond flour, and using heavy cream instead of milk.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to adapt the recipe:

Stuffing Substitute: Replace the cornbread stuffing mix with crushed pork rinds or a keto-friendly bread alternative.
Cream Substitute: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a keto-friendly version of the casserole sauce.

In conclusion, Chicken Salad Casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and hearty ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting goodness of Chicken Salad Casserole!

Do you have any questions or suggestions about this recipe? Feel free to leave a comment below!

This comprehensive guide provides detailed instructions, variations, and answers to FAQs, ensuring that readers have all the information they need to create a delicious Chicken Salad Casserole.