Grandpa’s Overnight Chicken Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 10
Description:
Transport yourself back to Grandma and Grandpa’s kitchen with this nostalgic recipe straight from the family recipe box, typed out by Grandpa himself. This Overnight Chicken Casserole is a comforting dish that’s sure to bring back fond memories of childhood. With its combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, crunchy vegetables, and flavorful olives, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and heartwarming.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 3/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup green pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup stuffed green olives, sliced
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups crushed potato chips (for topping)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 277.1
- Fat: 14.6g
- Saturated Fat: 7.2g
- Cholesterol: 86.6mg
- Sodium: 814.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 23.5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 12.8g
Recipe Category: Chicken
Keywords: Poultry, Cheese, Vegetable, Meat, Kid Friendly, Potluck, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours, Easy, Inexpensive
Instructions:
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Mix all the casserole ingredients together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked elbow macaroni, diced chicken, chopped celery, diced green pepper, sliced stuffed green olives, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and salt. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Pour into buttered casserole: Grease a casserole dish with butter to prevent sticking. Transfer the mixed ingredients into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Refrigerate overnight: Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight. Allowing the flavors to meld overnight enhances the taste and texture of the casserole.
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Remove one hour before baking: About an hour before you plan to bake the casserole, take it out of the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the dish from being too cold in the center.
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Top with crushed potato chips and bake: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Sprinkle the crushed potato chips evenly over the top of the casserole. The potato chips add a delicious crunch and golden brown finish to the dish.
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Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown. The aroma of the cheesy, savory casserole filling the kitchen is sure to whet your appetite.
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Serve and enjoy: Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out generous portions onto plates and savor the comforting flavors of this beloved family recipe.
Notes:
- This casserole is perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to serve a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and budget-friendly.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the chicken for another protein such as turkey or ham.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven for a quick and convenient meal.
Conclusion:
Grandpa’s Overnight Chicken Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of cherished memories and family traditions. From the simple act of mixing ingredients to the comforting aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes, every step of this recipe is infused with love and nostalgia. So gather your loved ones around the table and share in the joy of this timeless dish that’s been passed down through generations.
