Classic Comfort Food Recipe: Thick And Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Chicken noodle soup is the quintessential American comfort food and somehow always manages to make us feel better, whether we’re under the weather or just had a rough day. While we love the traditional soup, we’re more a fan of hearty casseroles, so turning this dish into a smooth and cheesy baked meal was a no-brainer!

We cannot say enough great things about this. It absolutely hits the spot and is the best thing to come home to after a long day. Plus, you can make it ahead of time and then just put it in the oven when you’re ready to eat! Family members across the board will rave about this and you’ll be surprised how quickly people will start requesting it it’s really that good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken noodle casserole is a heartwarming twist on a classic. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavors that are sure to satisfy. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or when you need a comforting meal to lift your spirits. It’s easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Large mixing bowl
• Casserole dish
• Oven
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 1 pound 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 parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/3 cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375º F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and heavy cream. Stir to mix well.
4. Add the frozen peas and carrots, cheddar cheese, cubed chicken, and cooked egg noodles to the soup mixture. Season with garlic salt and pepper.
5. Pour the mixture into a large casserole dish and gently tap it against the counter to remove any air bubbles and smooth the top.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole.
7. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your noodles are cooked to al dente before mixing them into the casserole. This prevents them from becoming too mushy during baking. Also, feel free to use rotisserie chicken for added convenience.

Additional Tips or Variations

Customize your casserole by adding other vegetables like broccoli or spinach. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique flavor twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is a hearty meal that’s rich in protein and comforting carbs, offering a balanced meal in one dish. Adjust the portion size to fit your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Can I freeze this casserole? Absolutely! It freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before wrapping and storing in the freezer.

What can I use instead of egg noodles? You can substitute with any pasta you prefer, like penne or rotini.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious Thick and Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole. It’s sure to become a staple in your home. Don’t forget to let us know how it turned out in the comments below, and share your own twists on this comforting classic!