Chicken Crunch Casserole

Chicken Crunch Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender shredded chicken, hearty egg noodles, and a creamy sauce, all topped with a crispy layer of French fried onions. This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, as it’s easy to make and loved by everyone.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups French fried onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish.
2. Cook the Egg Noodles: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Creamy Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and garlic powder. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Add the cooked egg noodles to the chicken mixture and stir gently to combine. Make sure the noodles are evenly distributed throughout the creamy chicken mixture. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Add Cheese and Onions: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese adds a rich, melty layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy chicken and noodles. Then, top the cheese with the French fried onions. These onions will create a crunchy, savory topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The French fried onions should be golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables.

Tips for Success:

• Chicken: You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even turkey in this recipe. If you prefer a different protein, such as ham or beef, feel free to make the substitution.
• Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional in this casserole, but you can substitute them with other types of pasta, such as rotini, penne, or even macaroni, depending on what you have on hand.
• Cheese: While cheddar cheese is commonly used, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Additions: To add more depth to the casserole, consider incorporating additional ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or peas into the creamy chicken mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips:

• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and pop it into the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the refrigerator.
• Freezing: To freeze the casserole, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, but don’t bake it yet. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions:

Chicken Crunch Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with:

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette
• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as carrots or asparagus