Creamy Chicken and Noodle Casserole
Craving comfort food? This Creamy Chicken and Noodle Casserole is sure to hit the spot! Packed with tender chicken, hearty noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed butter crackers
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, egg noodles, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, onions, celery, mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the crushed butter crackers and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Helpful Tips:
- Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like peas or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- You can also use leftover turkey in place of chicken for a Thanksgiving leftover twist.
- Try using whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a healthier alternative.
- Make a double batch and freeze one for later for an easy weeknight meal.
- Add some hot sauce or spicy peppers for a kick of heat.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.
- Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
- Enjoy leftovers the next day for an even more flavorful dish.
Expert Secrets:
- Make sure to season the chicken well before cooking for maximum flavor.
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Try adding a sprinkle of paprika or herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
- Use quality ingredients for the best results, such as organic chicken and fresh vegetables.
- Don’t overcook the noodles as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- For a creamier sauce, add a touch more sour cream or cream of chicken soup.
- Feel free to double the recipe for a larger crowd or leftovers for the week.
- For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
- Cover the casserole with foil while baking to prevent the top from becoming too browned. Remove the foil towards the end of baking for a golden crust.
- Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a burst of freshness.
