Amish-Style Chicken Gumbo

This Amish-Style Chicken Gumbo casserole combines tender chicken, savory broth, and a creamy soup base, topped with crispy Panko breadcrumbs for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for any family gathering or weeknight dinner.

Pictured above is a serving of Amish-Style Chicken Gumbo.  Photo courtesy of Amish-Heritage.org

When you're craving a warm and hearty meal that’s both comforting and flavorful, Amish-Style Chicken Gumbo is the answer. This easy-to-make casserole features tender chicken, creamy soup, and a rich, cheesy topping that’s baked to perfection. It’s a great dish to prepare in advance, making it ideal for busy nights or family gatherings. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy dinner, this dish delivers every time.

To make this Amish-Style Chicken Gumbo, you'll start by layering slices of bread at the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Then, you’ll top the bread with cooked, diced chicken and pour a savory mixture of beaten eggs, mayonnaise, melted butter, milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper over the chicken. After layering cheese on top, spread a can of cream of chicken or celery soup to add that comforting, creamy texture. Let the casserole refrigerate overnight for the flavors to meld, then bake until golden brown and bubbly. The final touch is a sprinkle of buttered Panko breadcrumbs that add an irresistible crispy crunch to the dish.

Why You'll Love This Amish Chicken Gumbo Recipe:

  • Hearty and Filling: The combination of bread, chicken, cheese, and soup makes this casserole a satisfying meal that will keep you full.

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with common pantry staples, this dish is perfect for last-minute meals or when you're low on time.

  • Easy to Make Ahead: Refrigerating it overnight means minimal effort on the day you bake it, making this casserole a great option for busy weeknights.

  • Cheesy Goodness: The melt-in-your-mouth cheese layer on top adds an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love.

  • Crispy Topping: The buttery, crunchy Panko breadcrumbs create a satisfying texture contrast to the creamy casserole beneath.

Ingredients:

  • 9 slices bread (cubed or laid out flat)

  • 4 cups cooked, diced chicken

  • 4 large eggs

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

  • ¼ cup butter (melted)

  • 1 cup milk

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • 8 or 9 slices American cheese

  • 2 (10.5 ounce) cans cream of celery or cream of chicken soup

  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs mixed with approximately 3 Tbsp. melted butter

How to Make This Recipe:

  1. Start by greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish and laying the bread slices on the bottom. You can either leave the bread whole or cut it into cubes for a different texture.

  2. Evenly spread the cooked, diced chicken over the bread layer.

  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, melted butter, milk, chicken broth, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.

  4. Top the casserole with slices of American cheese, followed by a spread of your chosen cream of soup. Whether you prefer cream of celery or chicken, both add great flavor to the dish.

  5. Cover and refrigerate the casserole overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.

  6. The next day, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the casserole covered for about 30 minutes.

  7. Uncover the dish and sprinkle the buttered Panko breadcrumbs over the top. Continue baking for an additional 40-45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.

  8. For an extra crispy finish, you can switch the oven to broil and broil the casserole for 1 minute.

  9. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Refrigerate any leftovers for later.

Popular Substitutions and Additions:

  • Feel free to use whole wheat or sourdough bread.

  • Try sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist on the classic American cheese.

  • If you prefer, you can substitute with cream of mushroom.

  • If you don’t have cooked chicken, use leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey for a faster option.

  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a slight kick of heat.

Storage:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. The casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for freezing.

Amish Chicken Gumbo FAQ's:

Can I make this casserole without refrigeration overnight?
While it’s best to refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld, you can skip this step if you’re in a hurry. The casserole will still turn out delicious, though the bread may not absorb the liquid as fully.

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different bread types like baguette, challah, or a hearty artisan loaf for a unique twist.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of mashed potatoes for an extra comforting meal.

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