Chicken Noodle Casserole

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a delightful comfort food that brings warmth to any table. With just 15 minutes of prep, you can enjoy tender egg noodles, colorful veggies, and juicy chicken baked in a rich cream sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of chicken and noodles.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or using leftover chicken.
• One-Dish Meal: Everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole can be made ahead of time and frozen for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Chicken Noodle Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools that make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking dish
• Large pot
• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Medium zip-top bag

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking dish: Ideal size for baking casseroles evenly without overflow.
• Large pot: Perfect for boiling noodles quickly and efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps remain in your sauce.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 3 cups dry egg noodles (5½ oz or 156g)
• ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (divided)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 cups frozen peas and carrots
• 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken
• 18 saltine or Ritz crackers

How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of salted water, cook the egg noodles according to package directions, but undercook them by 1 minute. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of the butter. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, onion powder, and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour until no white remains. Next, whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened. Taste your sauce and adjust seasonings if needed.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In your prepared baking dish, mix together the cooked noodles, sauce, frozen peas and carrots, and chopped chicken until well combined.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a medium zip-top bag, crush the saltine or Ritz crackers into small pieces. Transfer them to a bowl. In the microwave, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and stir it into the crushed crackers. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Serve hot!

How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole

Serving your Chicken Noodle Casserole can enhance the dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your meal.

Family Style

• Serve directly from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style meal. Everyone can help themselves to generous portions.

Individual Portions

• For a more elegant presentation, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins. This makes for a lovely dinner party setting.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added freshness. This enhances both flavor and appearance.

Accompanied by Bread

• Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks. This adds a satisfying crunch and is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Paired with Salad

• A light side salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole. It balances flavors and adds freshness to the meal.

Leftovers for Lunch

• Enjoy leftovers in a lunchbox. The casserole reheats well and is perfect for quick weekday meals.

How to Perfect Chicken Noodle Casserole

To achieve the best Chicken Noodle Casserole, follow these helpful tips.

• Undercook Pasta: Cook your egg noodles one minute less than package instructions. They will absorb sauce during baking without becoming mushy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones for better texture and flavor in your casserole.
• Flavorful Broth: Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while still maintaining rich flavor in your creamy sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste your sauce before mixing it with other ingredients. Adjust salt, pepper, or herbs to ensure optimal flavor throughout the dish.
• Crispy Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter before sprinkling them over the casserole before baking.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Noodle Casserole

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Noodle Casserole can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic provide a crisp contrast to the creamy casserole.
2. Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crunch and creaminess, enhancing the overall dining experience.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrition, making your meal more vibrant.
4. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw offers a nice crunch that balances out the comfort of the casserole.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair perfectly with savory dishes like this casserole—a delightful combination!
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the textures in Chicken Noodle Casserole while keeping it extra comforting.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness, balancing out richer flavors from the main dish.
8. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a healthy option that’s easy to prepare and delicious alongside your casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Noodle Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken noodle casserole properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your sauce and adjust seasonings before mixing everything together.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles too long before baking can result in mushy pasta. Undercook them by one minute according to package directions for the best texture.
• Using low-quality broth: The flavor of your casserole heavily relies on the quality of the chicken broth. Opt for low-sodium or homemade broth for a richer taste.
• Not letting it cool before serving: Serving right out of the oven can lead to a soupy casserole. Allow it to sit for a few minutes after baking to set up nicely before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Chicken Noodle Casserole will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Noodle Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many home cooks have similar questions about Chicken Noodle Casserole. Here are some of the most frequently asked ones:

Can I use other types of noodles?

You can definitely substitute other pasta types like rotini or penne. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even some grated cheese for an extra cheesy kick!

How do I make this Chicken Noodle Casserole healthier?

Use whole wheat noodles, low-fat cream, and add more vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for added nutrients.

Can I prepare this Chicken Noodle Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners and meal prep!