Are you curious about a dish that takes you back to the comforting flavors of the past? Nixon Chicken Casserole, a classic from the 70s, features tender chicken, broccoli, onions, cheese, eggs, and cream of mushroom soup, all baked together in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This hearty meal has a nostalgic charm and is often described as both comforting and traditional. With variations that include shredded roast chicken and broccoli on a rice base topped with cheese, it’s a delicious taste of traditional American cuisine that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredient Notes
Shredded Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken works well for convenience and adds extra flavor. You can also use leftover turkey or cooked chicken thighs if preferred.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a stronger flavor, but mild or medium cheddar can be used for a more subtle taste. You can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a variation.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo adds the best texture and richness, but you can use light mayonnaise for a lower-fat option.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: For a homemade version, combine sautéed mushrooms with a roux and broth to create your own creamy soup.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is ideal, but frozen broccoli can be used if thawed and drained thoroughly.
Ingredient Substitutes
Chicken: Replace chicken with cooked turkey, ground beef, or even shredded tofu for a vegetarian option.
Cheddar Cheese: Substitute with gouda, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese.
Mayonnaise: Use plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter alternative.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Replace with cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, or a dairy-free cream soup if needed.
Broccoli: Use cauliflower, green beans, or zucchini as a substitute.
How To Make Nixon Chicken Casserole
Preheat Oven:
You’ll want your oven ready at 350°F (175°C), so it’s hot and ready when the casserole goes in. Also, grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Cook the Broccoli:
Steam the broccoli for about 10 minutes until it’s tender but still holds its shape. This ensures it’s fully cooked before going into the casserole and blends well with the creamy texture.
Mix the Casserole Base:
In a large bowl, mix together your main ingredients: shredded chicken, eggs (for binding), cheddar cheese (for flavor), mayonnaise (for creaminess), and cream of mushroom soup (for the savory base). This forms the rich, flavorful filling of the casserole.
Add the Vegetables:
Gently fold in the cooked broccoli and thawed peas. These vegetables add color, texture, and nutrition. Mixing gently helps keep them intact and evenly spread throughout.
Assemble and Bake:
Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish and smooth it out. Bake it for 30–35 minutes until it’s hot and the top turns a nice golden brown. This gives it a slightly crispy top and a warm, gooey center.
Cool and Serve:
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets and doesn’t fall apart when sliced. Then serve it warm and enjoy!
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Freezing:
Freeze the unbaked casserole in the baking dish, covered tightly with foil and plastic wrap, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. If already baked, cool the casserole completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
Recipe Variations
Low-Carb Version: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with a low-carb, homemade mushroom sauce. Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs if you add a topping.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with cooked quinoa, lentils, or tofu. Use a vegetarian cream soup.
Extra Cheesy: Sprinkle additional cheddar or mozzarella on top of the casserole before baking for a gooey layer.
Add Rice or Pasta: Mix in cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta to make this a heartier meal.
Crunchy Topping: Add a breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter or crushed crackers for a crispy crust.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, frozen broccoli works fine. Thaw and drain it thoroughly before mixing to prevent excess moisture in the casserole. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. - How can I make this healthier?
Use light mayonnaise, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt as substitutes. Add more vegetables like carrots or spinach. - Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Adjust the baking time slightly as needed. - Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, canned chicken can be used for convenience. Drain it well and shred it before mixing.
Nixon Chicken Casserole
Equipment
- 9 ×13 inch baking dish
- Oven
- Streamer
- Grater
- Whisks
- Tongs
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken breast
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 can 10 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 3 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup frozen peas thawed
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
Cook the Broccoli:
- Steam the chopped broccoli for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes fork-tender. Drain and let it cool slightly.
Mix the Casserole Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken breast, 2 eggs, 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, 1 cup of mayonnaise, and 1 can (10 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Add the Vegetables:
- Fold in the steamed broccoli and 1 cup of thawed peas. Mix gently until the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to help it set. Serve warm and enjoy!