Thick and Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Thick and Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. This casserole is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

1 lb egg noodles
2-3 cups cooked chicken, cubed
1 14 oz can cream of chicken soup
1 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 16 oz bag frozen peas and carrots
3/4 cup heavy cream
2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
1/3 cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp garlic salt
Kosher salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375º F.
2. Cook the Noodles:
   Cook the egg noodles until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and heavy cream until well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the frozen peas and carrots, cheddar cheese, cooked chicken, and the drained noodles to the soup mixture. Season with garlic salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
   Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Prepare the Topping:
   In a small bowl, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.
8. Serve:
   Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6. The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, while the cooking time is around 30-35 minutes, leading to a total time of about 50 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, bell peppers, or green beans for added nutrition.
• Cheese Options: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Seasoning: Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350º F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and tasty option for this casserole.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
   You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the casserole may be less creamy.
3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
4. Can I freeze the casserole?
   Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just be sure to cover it tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
5. How do I know when it’s done?
   The casserole should be bubbly and the top should be golden brown.
6. Can I make it lighter?
   Use low-fat versions of the soups and cheese for a lighter dish.
7. What type of noodles works best?
   Egg noodles are ideal, but you can also use other types like rotini or penne.
8. Is there a vegetarian version?
   Yes! Substitute the chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of cream soups.
9. What can I serve with this casserole?
   A simple green salad or steamed vegetables pairs nicely.
10. Can I add spices?
    Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne for a little kick!

Conclusion

Thick and Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, this dish is perfect for any occasion, making it a staple in many kitchens. Enjoy it with your family for a delightful meal!

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