Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. Tender egg noodles, a medley of vegetables, and chunks of chicken are bathed in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with buttery crackers for a delightful crunch. It’s a classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and cheesy: The combination of a rich cheese sauce, tender chicken, and a variety of vegetables creates a comforting and flavorful dish.
• Easy to make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal prep work.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the vegetables or use different types of cheese to your liking.
• Crowd-pleaser: This casserole is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Casserole

This recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Egg Noodles: Extra-wide egg noodles are recommended for this recipe.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the pasta and the sauce.
• Olive Oil and Unsalted Butter: Used for sautéing the vegetables and making the sauce.
• Mushrooms: Cleaned and sliced for a savory addition.
• Carrots and Onion: Chopped vegetables that add sweetness and flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
• Whole Milk: Creates a creamy base for the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
• American Cheese and Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A blend of cheeses that adds a creamy and cheesy flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory flavors.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy kick to the sauce.
• Cooked Chicken: Use leftover or rotisserie chicken, or cook your own chicken breasts.
• Frozen Peas: Add a touch of sweetness and color.
• Ritz Crackers: Crushed crackers create a buttery and crunchy topping.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Noodles

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 13×9 inch baking pan with cooking spray. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until almost al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and return to the pot. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and toss to coat. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

While the noodles are cooking, warm a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until browned. Transfer the mushrooms to the pot with the noodles. Melt another tablespoon of butter in the skillet and sauté the chopped carrots and onions until softened. Transfer the vegetables to the pot with the noodles and mushrooms.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1 minute. Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened. Whisk in the cheeses until smooth. Add the garlic powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Whisk until blended. Pour the sauce over the reserved noodles and vegetables.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Add the diced chicken and frozen peas to the noodle mixture and gently fold with a spatula until combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Melt the remaining butter and drizzle it over the crushed Ritz crackers. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the casserole. Bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 15 minutes. Tent with foil halfway through to prevent over-browning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Noodles: Cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy in the oven.
• Mushrooms: Cook the mushrooms until they are well browned for the best flavor.
• Cheese: You can use other types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the casserole, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or corn.

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Weeknight dinner: This casserole is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
• Potluck or gathering: It’s also a great dish to bring to a potluck or gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You can add a splash of milk, chicken broth, or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can use other types of noodles, such as penne, rotini, or even egg noodles.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it later. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

My casserole is a bit dry, what did I do wrong?
If your casserole is dry, it could be that you overcooked the noodles or didn’t use enough sauce. You can try cooking the noodles al dente and adding more sauce to the casserole.

There you have it! A simple and delicious recipe for Chicken Noodle Casserole. I hope you enjoy it!

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