Delight in the heartwarming nostalgia of a beloved comfort food classic with our Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe. Bursting with flavor and loaded with hearty ingredients, this casserole is a celebration of home-cooked goodness. Tender egg noodles, shredded rotisserie chicken, creamy sauce, and a golden breadcrumb topping come together to create a dish that’s sure to warm your soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal, this Chicken Noodle Casserole is a surefire winner. Join us as we dive into the recipe and rediscover the joy of comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (12 oz) egg noodles, cooked and drained
- Meat from 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 2 cans (10 oz each) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed veggies
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare Casserole Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, condensed cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, diced onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen mixed veggies. Stir until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the casserole mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Make Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and melted butter. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with butter.
- Top Casserole: Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the comforting goodness of Chicken Noodle Casserole!
Cook Notes:
- For added flavor, you can season the casserole mixture with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs and spices.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables in the casserole according to your preferences. Peas, carrots, corn, or green beans are all great options.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking until the breadcrumbs are deeply golden and crunchy.
Variations:
- Creamy Mushroom Twist: Substitute one can of cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup for a richer, earthier flavor.
- Italian-Inspired Delight: Add a tablespoon of Italian seasoning and a cup of diced tomatoes to the casserole mixture for a Mediterranean flair.
- Bacon Lover’s Dream: Crumble cooked bacon over the top of the casserole before adding the breadcrumb topping for an indulgent touch.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: Replace the egg noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles to reduce the carbohydrate content. Use a keto-friendly cream of chicken soup alternative and mayonnaise made with avocado oil. Omit the breadcrumbs or use crushed pork rinds for the topping.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of egg noodles used and increase the proportion of shredded chicken and vegetables in the casserole. Opt for a low-carb milk substitute such as almond milk or coconut milk. Use a blend of grated Parmesan cheese and almond flour for the breadcrumb topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use homemade cream of chicken soup instead of canned? A: Yes, you can substitute homemade cream of chicken soup for the canned variety. Simply combine cooked chicken broth, heavy cream, and seasonings to create a creamy soup base.
Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken? A: Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works well in this recipe. Simply shred the cooked chicken and use it as directed in the recipe.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Savor the familiar flavors of home-cooked goodness with our Chicken Noodle Casserole recipe, a timeless classic that’s sure to evoke memories of cozy family dinners and comforting meals. With its creamy texture, tender chicken, and golden breadcrumb topping, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Whether you’re seeking solace on a chilly evening or sharing a meal with loved ones, this Chicken Noodle Casserole is the ultimate comfort food indulgence.
So, gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy the heartwarming embrace of our Chicken Noodle Casserole. Let each bite transport you to a place of culinary bliss and nostalgia, where comfort and satisfaction reign supreme!
