Chicken Salad Casserole Baked Up
Juicy chicken thighs baked in creamy Tuscan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes - but the secret technique makes all the difference.
Total time
90 min
Servings
1
Calories
654.4
Category
Salads
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Chicken Salad Casserole Baked Up recipe. Combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all baked under a buttery Ritz cracker and almond topping, this one-dish meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy brunches. Easy to prepare and budget-friendly, it delivers a satisfying crunch and creamy texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Makes 1 serving
- 2 1/2 cooked rice
- 2 sliced water chestnuts
- 1 celery
- 1 fresh mushrooms
- 1 onions
- 3 dried rosemary
- 1 1/2 pepper
- 1/4 mayonnaise
- 1 butter
- 3/4 margarine
Method
In a large bowl, combine all wet ingredients and seasonings (lemon juice,rosemary,salt and pepper, chicken soup and mayo).Mix well.
Add all dry ingredients into the wet mixture (chicken,rice,celery,mushrooms and chestnuts if you want them). Mix wet and dry ingredients until all is well covered and evenly mixed.
Place the mixture into a 9x13 casserole dish (no need to grease).
TOPPING: Melt the margarine or butter and add the crumbled ritz crackers and slivered almonds and mix well until a slightly moist crumbly texture is obtained. Sprinkle over the entire surface of the casserole.
Bake your casserole at 375 for 30-45 minutes. You are basically heating your casserole up and slightly cooking the mushrooms and celery. The veggies should still have a slight bite. Enjoy!
Cook's notes
- For best results, use day-old cooked rice to prevent a mushy texture.
- Feel free to substitute water chestnuts with diced bell peppers or peas for added color and crunch.
- If you prefer a golden topping, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Easy swaps
- Instead of mayonnaise, use Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option
- Instead of margarine, use butter (use unsalted for better flavor control)
- Instead of Ritz crackers, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter
- Instead of slivered almonds, use chopped pecans or crushed croutons
Frequently asked
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just ensure it's well mixed into the casserole.
Do I need to pre-cook the mushrooms and celery?
No, they cook slightly in the oven, retaining a pleasant bite. If you prefer softer vegetables, sauté them briefly before adding.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs for the topping and ensure your chicken soup and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Why is my casserole watery?
This can happen if the rice is too moist or if you add extra liquid. Drain canned water chestnuts well and use slightly dry rice to avoid excess moisture.
