Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe

Chicken Noodle Casserole is a timeless comfort food that’s perfect for feeding a family, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering. This hearty dish combines tender chicken, rich cheese, and savory vegetables all wrapped up in a creamy, comforting sauce. With its combination of extra-wide egg noodles, chicken, mushrooms, carrots, and peas, it’s a complete meal in one dish. The deliciously creamy sauce, made with milk, chicken broth, and a mix of melted American and cheddar cheese, is what truly makes this casserole irresistible. Topped with a crunchy layer of broken Ritz crackers, this dish has the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures. This easy-to-make casserole will quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection for its comforting flavors and the satisfaction it brings to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is an absolute crowd-pleaser. With the creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken mixed with the egg noodles, it’s a satisfying and hearty dish that’s perfect for any meal. The addition of vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and peas adds a nutritious balance to the casserole, while the blend of American and sharp cheddar cheese gives it a rich, comforting flavor. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess to the sauce that enhances the overall taste. The Ritz cracker topping brings an irresistible crunch to the casserole, providing the perfect contrast to the creamy filling. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, this casserole is a great way to use up what you have on hand. It’s an easy, one-dish dinner that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

For the Casserole:

• Extra-wide egg noodles
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil
• Unsalted butter
• Mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
• Carrots, chopped
• Onion, chopped
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Low-sodium or homemade chicken broth
• American cheese (deli style), rough chopped
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Garlic powder
• Dijon mustard
• Cooked chicken, diced (about 4 medium chicken breasts or 1 rotisserie chicken)
• Frozen peas

For the Topping:

• Ritz crackers, broken into small pieces

Variations

1. Add More Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or green beans to boost the nutritional value of the casserole.
2. Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this casserole gluten-free.
3. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese combinations such as mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.
4. Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a little heat.
5. Crispy Topping Alternative: Instead of Ritz crackers, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for a different type of crunch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the extra-wide egg noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, carrots, and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms have released their moisture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the American cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked noodles, vegetables, diced chicken, and frozen peas to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to combine and coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Toss the broken Ritz crackers in the melted butter until they are coated.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the buttery Ritz crackers evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden and crispy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use rotisserie chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this casserole and saves you the effort of cooking the chicken yourself.
• Cook the noodles al dente: Since the casserole will bake in the oven, cook the noodles slightly less than the package instructions to prevent them from becoming too soft.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add the cracker topping right before baking.
• Control the creaminess: If you prefer a creamier casserole, you can add more cheese or a little extra milk to the sauce mixture.
• Don’t skip the topping: The Ritz crackers provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy casserole and are an essential part of the dish.

How to Serve

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a filling meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Pair it with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the rich flavors of the casserole. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or a comforting meal on a chilly evening.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente before assembling the casserole.

2. Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just chop it into bite-sized pieces and add it to the casserole.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen peas are already included in the recipe, but you can also use other frozen vegetables like carrots or mixed vegetables.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking. Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add the cracker topping before baking.

5. Can I use low-fat cheese or milk?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat cheese and milk for a lighter version, but the texture and flavor may be slightly different.

6. How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for an added kick.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Colby Jack, depending on your preferences.

8. How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

To make the casserole gluten-free, swap the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend.

9. How long does this casserole take to bake?

The casserole should bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy and the casserole is bubbly.

10. How do I reheat frozen casserole?

To reheat a frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

This Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich cheese sauce, tender chicken, and vegetables, it’s a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The crispy Ritz cracker topping adds the perfect touch of crunch, making each bite satisfying and delicious. It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and is ideal for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, this casserole is a go-to recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. Enjoy this classic dish with your loved ones and savor the flavors of home-cooked comfort food!

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