Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This chicken noodle casserole
- It’s a warm hug in a dish, perfect for cozy nights.
- Quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Loaded with flavor and comfort, it’s a family favorite.
- Versatile ingredients mean you can customize it your way.
- Leftovers taste even better, making lunch a treat!
chicken noodle casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
- Step 2: Cook the Noodles – Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and set aside.
- Step 3: Mix the Base – In a large bowl, combine the soups, sour cream, salt, pepper, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients – Stir in the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, peas, onion, garlic, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until the noodles are coated.
- Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish – Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Step 6: Add Cheese Topping – Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
- Step 7: Bake – Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Step 8: Let it Rest – Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 30g |
Ingredients
Gather these tasty ingredients to create a delightful chicken noodle casserole!
- 12 oz egg noodles – the base of your casserole
- 2 cups cooked chicken – shredded for easy mixing
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – adds creaminess
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – brings in rich flavor
- 1 cup sour cream – for extra richness
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – melty goodness
- 1/2 cup frozen peas – a pop of color and sweetness
- 1/2 cup diced onion – for a savory kick
- 2 cloves garlic – minced for flavor
- 2 tbsp butter – adds richness
- 1 tsp salt – to enhance flavors
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – a bit of warmth
How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole
This delightful chicken noodle casserole is perfect for a cozy night in. With a preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of 25–30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready in no time. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 minutes before diving in!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Once they’re al dente, drain them and set aside. You’re one step closer to deliciousness!
Step 3: Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine the soups, sour cream, salt, pepper, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, stir in the cooked noodles, shredded chicken, peas, onion, garlic, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix it all together until the noodles are coated in that yummy mixture.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Step 8: Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Dietary | Comfort food |
| Serves | 6 |
| Best Served | Warm and cheesy |
Pro Tips for Making chicken noodle casserole
- Opt for rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful base.
- Use egg noodles for a classic texture that holds up well.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness in flavor.
- Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
How to Serve this chicken noodle casserole
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for added crunch.
- Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Complement with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Here’s how to store your chicken noodle casserole for later enjoyment:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Label with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Stir occasionally for even heating.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, if preferred.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What are the 4 ingredients in chicken casserole?
The four essential ingredients in a classic chicken casserole typically include cooked chicken, noodles, a creamy sauce (like cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce), and vegetables (such as peas or carrots). These ingredients come together to create a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
2. What ingredients go in a chicken casserole?
In addition to the four main ingredients, you can customize your chicken noodle casserole with various additions. Common ingredients include cheese for a creamy texture, breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping, and seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or herbs to enhance the flavor. Feel free to get creative with your favorite veggies or spices!
3. What are some common mistakes people make when making chicken and noodles?
One common mistake is overcooking the noodles, which can lead to a mushy texture in the casserole. Another is not seasoning the dish adequately, which can result in bland flavors. Additionally, skipping the step of letting the casserole rest before serving can prevent the flavors from melding together properly. Taking your time and following the recipe closely will yield the best results!
4. What are the four components to a casserole?
The four main components of a casserole are a protein (like chicken), a starch (such as noodles or rice), a vegetable (like broccoli or peas), and a binding agent (such as a sauce or cheese). These elements work together to create a balanced and satisfying dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
We hope you’re as excited to try this chicken noodle casserole as we are! It’s the perfect blend of comfort and simplicity, bringing back those warm, cozy memories. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delightful dish, and enjoy every delicious bite. Trust us, it’s a rewarding experience you won’t want to miss!