Chemo Casserole (Canning Recipe) – Nourishment in a Jar

Whether you’re supporting a loved one through cancer treatment or simply preparing hearty, comforting meals in advance, this Chemo Casserole is a thoughtful and nourishing option to can. Packed with gentle ingredients, easy to digest, and shelf-stable, it’s the kind of homemade care that makes all the difference.

This canning-friendly version ensures you always have a quick, protein-rich, and comforting meal ready — no thawing, no stress, just warm comfort in minutes.

🥘 What is Chemo Casserole?

Chemo Casserole is a soft, mild-flavored meal designed to be easy on the stomach, rich in protein, and full of wholesome ingredients. It’s especially helpful for those with limited appetite, nausea, or difficulty chewing.

Our version is pressure-canned so you can stock your pantry with a ready-to-eat, healing meal that supports the body — and the heart.

🧂 Ingredients (for 7 quarts or 14 pints):

4 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
3 cups cooked rice or cooked pasta (soft, not al dente)
2 cups carrots, finely diced
1 ½ cups celery, chopped
1 cup onion, finely chopped
1 ½ cups peas (optional, for added color and nutrients)
2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme or parsley
8 cups homemade or low-sodium chicken broth (warm)
Optional: 1–2 cups cream of chicken soup (only if eating fresh, not recommended for canning due to dairy)

🛠️ Supplies:

Pressure canner
Quart or pint-size canning jars
Lids and rings
Jar lifter, funnel, lid lifter
Paper towels and vinegar for cleaning rims

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Cook chicken, rice/pasta, and vegetables until tender.
Mix all ingredients (except broth) in a large bowl.
Heat broth separately until hot.

2. Fill the Jars

Using a funnel, fill hot, sterilized jars with the casserole mixture, leaving 1 1/4 inch headspace.
Ladle hot broth over the mixture to cover, still maintaining 1 1/4 inch headspace.

3. Wipe Rims & Seal

Use a paper towel dipped in vinegar to wipe the rims clean.
Place lids on and screw bands fingertip tight.

🔥 Pressure Canning Instructions

For Quart Jars:

Process at 11 lbs pressure (dial gauge) or 10 lbs (weighted gauge)
Process for 90 minutes

For Pint Jars:

Process for 75 minutes
Adjust pressure based on your altitude and canner type.

After Processing:

Allow canner to cool naturally and depressurize completely.
Remove jars and let rest undisturbed for 12–24 hours.
Check seals. Label and store in a cool, dark place.

🍽️ How to Serve

To serve your Chemo Casserole:

Empty the jar into a saucepan and heat gently until warmed through.
Optionally, stir in a bit of cream, shredded cheese, or top with soft breadcrumbs when reheating for added richness.
Serve with crackers or a soft roll for a full comforting meal.

💛 Final Thoughts

This Chemo Casserole is more than food — it’s a gesture of love and support. Perfect for meal prep, pantry stocking, or gifting to someone going through treatment. Nourishing, gentle, and full of heart, it’s a recipe to keep close.

🫙 Because sometimes, the best medicine is a homemade meal in a jar.

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