Every time I make this Chicken Noodle Casserole, it reminds me of Sunday dinners with family. As soon as the casserole bakes in the oven, the delightful aroma wafts through our home, wrapping me in a warm embrace of nostalgia. It’s a dish that evokes memories of my mom bustling around the kitchen, preparing meals that brought our family together. You know, those evenings where everyone sat around the table, sharing stories and laughter, their plates piled high with comfort food.
I can practically hear my children’s voices clamoring for seconds when I serve this dish. It’s not just food; it’s love served on a plate. When you gather your family around this casserole, I promise you’ll feel the same warmth and connection that fills my heart every time I make it. This recipe is one my family will cherish, and I’m eager to share it with you!
How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole
Ingredients
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Egg Noodles | 8 oz |
Cooked Chicken, shredded | 2 cups |
Cream of Chicken Soup | 1 cup |
Sour Cream | 1 cup |
Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup |
Frozen Peas (optional) | 1/2 cup |
Milk | 1/4 cup |
Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
Onion Powder | 1 tsp |
Salt and Pepper | to taste |
Breadcrumbs (for topping, optional) | as needed |
I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the chicken smell and taste amazing!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat Your Oven to 350°F
First, let’s get that oven nice and warm. Preheating it is key for that bubbly, golden perfection your casserole deserves!
2. Cook the Egg Noodles
Boil a pot of salted water and throw in those egg noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. You want them firm enough to hold up in the casserole, not mushy!
3. Drain and Set Aside
Once the noodles are cooked, drain them. It’s always nice to have them sitting aside, waiting to be mingled with those creamy, delightful ingredients.
4. Combine the Creamy Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, let’s combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and milk. I like to whisk these together until they’re smooth. This mixture is what gives our casserole that deliciously creamy texture.
5. Add the Chicken
Next, it’s time to fold in the shredded chicken. I always use leftover roast chicken for this recipe; it gives the dish that extra flavor! If you don’t have leftovers, a rotisserie chicken from the store works just as well.
6. Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This is where the magic begins. You’ll want to mix it well so every bite is seasoned just right.
7. Mix in the Noodles
Now comes the fun part: add those drained egg noodles to the creamy chicken mixture. Gently stir until every noodle is coated in that divine sauce.
8. Add the Peas
If you’re using them, toss in the frozen peas. They add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness that my family adores.
9. Transfer to a Baking Dish
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the entire mixture in and spread it evenly. It’s a bit messy, but trust me, it’s worth it!
10. Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you like a little crunch, add some breadcrumbs to finish it off. This will create a beautiful crust when it bakes!
11. Bake Your Casserole
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll want to see it bubbling around the edges and the cheese turning a lovely golden color.
12. Let it Rest
Once your casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. This helps it set up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Why I Love Making This Dish
There’s something special about this Chicken Noodle Casserole. It’s comforting, creamy, and takes me back to family gatherings where everyone lingers at the table long after dinner is over. When I make it, I know I’m not just feeding my family; I’m sharing love and nurturing bonds. Each time we enjoy this dish, it reminds me of how important it is to gather around the table and savor delicious food with the ones we hold dear.
What You’ll Need
Before you dive into this recipe, be sure to have these tools on hand: a large mixing bowl, a pot for boiling the noodles, a strainer, and a nice baking dish. If you have a whisk and a wooden spoon handy, those are great too!
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Boil and drain the egg noodles.
- Mix together the creamy ingredients.
- Fold in shredded chicken and season.
- Add the noodles and frozen peas.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top, and bake until bubbly.
Tips for Perfect Results
To get that extra crispy topping, try broiling your casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it! You can also experiment with different cheeses: mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Serving Suggestions and Sides
I love serving Chicken Noodle Casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies. A side of garlic bread complements the creaminess of the casserole and makes it a complete meal! You could even whip up some quick cranberry sauce for a hint of sweetness.
Leftovers
Now, if you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for about 3-4 days. When you reheat, add a splash of milk to the casserole to bring back that creamy texture. You can pop it in the microwave, but I find reheating it in the oven brings back the lovely texture better!
FAQ Section
Can I use boneless chicken?
You can, but trust me, the bone-in version is so much more flavorful. I’ve tried both, and bone-in is always juicier!
What if I don’t have egg noodles?
No worries! You can use any pasta you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for freezing. Just prepare it as you would, then cover tightly and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake according to the instructions.
Conclusion
This Chicken Noodle Casserole has become a favorite in my house, bridging the gap between comfort food and wholesome family meals. I’m so excited for you to try it. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! It’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want to whip up something satisfying and delicious. Please let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. Happy cooking, my friends!