Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend)
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked egg noodles, thawed peas and carrots, and one cup of shredded cheese. Mix well and spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and noodle mixture in the baking dish. Ensure an even distribution to coat all the ingredients.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly, and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the creamy chicken noodle casserole hot and enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Note: If you want to try a variation, you can substitute tuna for chicken, following the same steps. Tuna lovers will find it equally delightful!
Here are some tips to enhance your experience while making Creamy Chicken Noodle Casserole:
- Prep Ahead:
- Cook and shred the chicken in advance.
- Prepare the egg noodles and have them ready to go.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken:
- Save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding chicken. It adds a delicious flavor to the casserole.
- Fresh Ingredients:
- If possible, use fresh peas and carrots for a vibrant color and texture. However, frozen vegetables work perfectly fine and are convenient.
- Cheese Variety:
- Experiment with different cheese blends for the topping. A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella adds a nice flavor and gooey texture.
- Add Veggies:
- Feel free to sneak in more veggies. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach can be great additions for added nutrients and flavor.
- Herb Substitutions:
- Don’t hesitate to customize the herbs. Thyme, rosemary, or parsley can be used in place of or in addition to Italian seasoning for a unique taste.
- Seasoning Balance:
- Taste the creamy mixture before pouring it over the casserole to ensure the seasoning is to your liking. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed.
- Crunchy Topping:
- Add a layer of crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the cheese for an extra crunchy texture.
- Let it Rest:
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld together, and it will be easier to serve without falling apart.
- Serve with Fresh Greens:
- Pair the casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the meal.
- Make it Ahead:
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. This is perfect for busy days or when you want to prep meals in advance.
- Tuna Variation:
- If opting for the tuna version, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a handful of chopped fresh herbs for a burst of freshness.
Enjoy making and savoring your creamy chicken noodle casserole
