Lucy Belle’s Funky Chicken Casserole, a recipe handed down from My Aunt Debbie’s book “The Treasury of White Trash Cooking,” promises a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. This dish falls under the category of One Dish Meal, making it convenient and straightforward to prepare, especially for beginner cooks looking to impress with minimal effort.
Recipe Details:
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Serving Size: Approximately 8 servings (adjustable based on appetite and portion sizes)
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to recreate Lucy Belle’s Funky Chicken Casserole:
- Stuffing Mix: 1 package (about 1 cup)
- Water: 1 cup
- Butter: 1/4 cup (1/2 stick)
- Chicken: 2 1/2 cups, cooked and diced
- Onion: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
- Celery: 1/2 cup, finely chopped
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
- Salt: 3/4 teaspoon
- Eggs: 2 large, beaten
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, grated
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 390.3
- Total Fat: 25.6g
- Saturated Fat: 14.8g
- Cholesterol: 115.9mg
- Sodium: 1145mg
- Carbohydrates: 22.8g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugar: 2.8g
- Protein: 17.1g
Instructions:
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Prepare the Stuffing Base:
- In a bowl, mix the stuffing mix with water and butter until well combined.
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Layer the Casserole:
- Spread half of the prepared stuffing mixture evenly in a greased casserole dish.
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Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
- In another bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped onion, celery, and mayonnaise. Mix well and season with salt.
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Assemble the Layers:
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the stuffing layer in the casserole dish.
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Prepare the Topping:
- In the same bowl used for the stuffing mix, combine the remaining half of the stuffing mixture with beaten eggs and milk. Mix until incorporated.
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Refrigerate Overnight:
- Cover the casserole dish and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld.
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Preheat and Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the casserole out of the refrigerator 1 hour before baking.
- Spread the cream of chicken soup evenly over the top of the casserole.
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Bake Uncovered:
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 40 minutes, or until heated through and lightly browned on top.
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Add Cheese Topping:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
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Final Bake:
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once done, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Cut into portions and serve hot.
Additional Tips:
- Casserole Dish Size: While the original recipe doesn’t specify, a 9×13 inch casserole dish is typically a good size for this recipe.
- Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and refrigerated overnight, making it an excellent choice for busy schedules.
- Variations: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers, or adjusting the seasoning to your taste preferences.
Conclusion:
Lucy Belle’s Funky Chicken Casserole blends simplicity with comfort, delivering a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. With its layers of savory stuffing, creamy chicken mixture, and cheesy topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning a potluck, this casserole offers a satisfying and delicious option that celebrates homemade goodness with every bite.
