Scalloped Chicken with Custard Gravy

Scalloped Chicken
Scalloped Chicken is a comforting, old-fashioned casserole combining tender diced chicken, seasoned bread crumbs, and a rich homemade custard gravy. This dish layers simple ingredients into a creamy, savory bake, creating a satisfying main course ideal for family dinners. The custard gravy, thickened with eggs, butter, and chicken stock, lends a luxurious texture and flavor, while the bread crumbs add a soft, buttery base and topping. This casserole reflects the mid-century love for economical, wholesome one-dish meals.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 430 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups bread crumbs
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp onion (grated )
  • 1 ½ tsp poultry seasoning
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 2 cups chicken (diced & cooked )

Custard Gravy:

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp flour
  • 3 cups chicken stock (hot )
  • salt (to taste)
  • 2 eggs (lightly beaten)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Crumbs

  • Melt 2 tbsp butter over low heat.
  • Toss in bread crumbs and stir for about 2 minutes until coated.

Step 2: Add Flavor Base

  • Add grated onion, poultry seasoning, and salt. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken

  • Set aside 2 cups of diced cooked chicken.

Step 4: Make Custard Gravy

  • Melt 4 tbsp butter in a saucepan.
  • Stir in 4 tbsp flour to form a roux.
  • Gradually blend in 3 cups hot chicken stock, stirring constantly.
  • Cook until thickened.
  • Season with salt to taste.

Step 5: Temper Eggs

  • Stir 1 cup of hot gravy into beaten eggs.
  • Return egg mixture to saucepan.
  • Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

  • In a shallow casserole dish, layer as follows:
  • – Buttered crumbs
  • – Chicken
  • – Custard gravy
  • Repeat layers, ending with crumbs on top.

Step 7: Bake

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until set and golden.

Tips

  • Use day-old bread for drier crumbs and better texture
  • Rotisserie chicken works well as a shortcut
  • Add celery or mushrooms to the custard for extra flavor
  • Use half chicken stock and half milk for a richer custard
  • Season crumbs with parsley or thyme for added aroma
  • Let the custard cool slightly before layering to avoid sogginess
  • Bake uncovered for a crisper crumb topping
  • Can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving

Nutrition

Calories: 430kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 29gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 165mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 410mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 720IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 95mgIron: 2.3mg
Keyword baked chicken, casserole, comfort food, custard gravy, family dinner, retro cooking, vintage recipe
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