Chicken Noodle Casserole
This Chicken Noodle Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion, from busy weeknights to cozy family gatherings. It combines tender chicken and hearty noodles in a creamy sauce, all topped with a delicious golden crust. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers comforting flavors that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This chicken noodle casserole can be assembled in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Family-Friendly: Loaded with familiar flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or leftover meats for a unique twist each time.
- Economical Meal: Utilizing pantry staples and leftover chicken makes this dish budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheesy Goodness: The combination of melted cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs creates a satisfying texture that’s hard to resist.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making your Chicken Noodle Casserole, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 2-quart baking dish
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 2-quart baking dish: The perfect size for holding all ingredients while ensuring even cooking.
- Large pot: Necessary for boiling the egg noodles to the right texture before combining them with other ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for mixing all components together without making a mess.
Ingredients
For the Casserole Base
- 2 cups dry egg noodles (about 8 oz)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas or veggie medley
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp melted butter
How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F. While it’s heating up, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Once done, drain well.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a 2-quart baking dish, mix together the cooked noodles, diced chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, frozen peas (or veggie medley), and black pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Mix until evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole base you’ve just prepared.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 1 minute at the end if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole
Serving Chicken Noodle Casserole can be a delightful experience, enhancing the comfort of this classic dish. It pairs well with various sides and garnishes that elevate its flavors.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a refreshing crunch.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing adds a delicious contrast to the casserole.
Add Bread for Dipping
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky taste complements the cheesy casserole perfectly.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for sopping up any leftover sauce.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds color and a burst of freshness.
- Thyme Leaves: A few thyme leaves can enhance the savory flavor profile.
Serve with Fruit
- Sliced Apples: The sweetness balances the savory casserole nicely.
- Mixed Berries: A bowl of berries provides a refreshing contrast to the meal.
How to Perfect Chicken Noodle Casserole
Cooking the perfect Chicken Noodle Casserole takes just a few easy steps. Follow these tips to ensure your dish is as delicious as possible.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and adds great flavor without extra effort.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook them al dente so they don’t become mushy when baked.
- Mix in Extra Veggies: Adding more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers boosts nutrition and flavor.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for varied taste profiles.
- Cover While Baking: Covering the dish for part of the baking time helps retain moisture.
- Broil for Crispiness: Broiling at the end gives that golden-brown crust everyone loves.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Noodle Casserole
Complementing your Chicken Noodle Casserole with the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients to your plate.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These offer a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that balances out the softness of the casserole.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting addition that many enjoy.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn makes an excellent seasonal side dish during summer months.
- Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, it’s flavorful and healthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a chicken noodle casserole can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to keep in mind.
- Using Overcooked Noodles: Always cook the egg noodles al dente. If you overcook them, they will become mushy when baked.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your casserole! A little black pepper enhances flavor. Consider adding garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
- Skipping Veggies: Ensure you add vegetables for balance. Frozen peas or a veggie medley not only add nutrition but also color and texture.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. This helps the casserole cook evenly and ensures it becomes hot and bubbly quickly.
- Ignoring Topping Options: A breadcrumb topping adds crunch. Don’t skip this step; consider mixing in herbs or cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Freeze in an airtight container or wrap tightly with aluminum foil.
- Best used within 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about the Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe.
What is Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Chicken noodle casserole is a comforting dish made with cooked chicken, egg noodles, cream of chicken soup, and often topped with cheese and breadcrumbs.
Can I use leftover chicken in my Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time during meal prep.
Is Chicken Noodle Casserole freezable?
Yes! You can freeze chicken noodle casserole for later use. Just ensure it’s stored properly.
How can I customize my Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the cheese. You can also use different types of pasta if desired!
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Noodle Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights and offers comfort with each bite. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences easily. Give this cozy dish a try and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table!
Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to family gatherings. Rich and creamy, this dish combines tender chicken and hearty egg noodles in a savory sauce, all topped with a golden crust of melted cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and simple ingredients, this recipe is designed for those who crave warm, satisfying meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or leftover meats for a personalized touch that your family will adore.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dry egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken (diced)
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen peas or veggie medley
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Cook egg noodles until al dente, then drain.
- In a baking dish, mix noodles, chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, peas, and black pepper.
- In a bowl, combine cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter; sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly; broil for an additional minute if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
