When it comes to comforting meals that bring warmth to both the stomach and the heart, few dishes can rival the goodness of Chicken Noodle Casserole. This classic casserole is a delightful combination of tender chicken, pasta, and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with crispy onions.
Why We Love This Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
This Chicken Noodle Casserole is cherished for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s easy to make. You’ll appreciate that it doesn’t require any complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Instead, you can find everything you need at your local grocery store. This makes it a fantastic choice for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Moreover, the dish is packed with nutrients thanks to its wholesome ingredients like chicken and broccoli. The combination of creamy sauce and melted cheese creates an indulgent flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s comfort food at its finest, delivering a heartwarming experience that reminds you of home-cooked meals.
There’s also something special about the crispy fried onion topping, adding a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken and pasta. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Chicken Noodle Casserole
To prepare this chicken noodle casserole, gather the following ingredients:
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 2 1/2 cups diced uncooked chicken
- 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon Garlic Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups dry Rotini
- 10.5 oz. condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup regular cheddar, shredded
- 1 cup French’s crispy fried onions
How to Make Chicken Noodle Casserole Directions
Making Chicken Noodle Casserole is straightforward, allowing you to whip up this hearty dish with minimal fuss. Here’s how you can create this comforting casserole step-by-step:
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly.
In a mixing bowl, season 2 1/2 cups of diced uncooked chicken with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Stir well to ensure that each piece of chicken gets coated with the seasonings.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken begins to brown.
Next, toss in 2 cups of broccoli florets. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the broccoli is tender yet vibrant.
While the chicken and broccoli are cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 3 cups of dry Rotini and cook for 1 minute less than al dente, as stated in the package instructions.
In a separate pot, mix together 10.5 ounces of condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of milk, and 2 cups of sharp white cheddar cheese (shredded). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Once the chicken and broccoli are cooked, drain the Rotini and add it to the skillet. Gently mix everything together, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
If needed, transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread the mixture evenly across the dish.
Top the casserole with 1 cup of regular cheddar cheese (shredded). Then cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
After 25 minutes, remove the cover and sprinkle 1 cup of French’s crispy fried onions evenly over the top. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for another 8 minutes, or until the onions are golden and crispy.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set slightly and make it easier to serve.
How to Serve Chicken Noodle Casserole
When it’s time to enjoy your Chicken Noodle Casserole, there are a variety of ways to serve this comforting dish. Start by spooning generous portions into individual bowls or onto plates. The casserole pairs beautifully with garlic bread with cheese on the side, making for an even more satisfying meal.
Consider garnishing each serving with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of hot sauce can liven up the dish.
Chicken Noodle Casserole also works well as a standalone dish, so you may not need any side items if you’re looking for convenience. The rich combination of chicken, noodles, and creamy sauce offers a complete meal that leaves you feeling full while still wanting more.
Expert Tips: Chicken Noodle Casserole
To ensure your Chicken Noodle Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider the following expert tips:
Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Make sure your chicken is cooked completely before adding it to the casserole. Undercooked chicken can pose health risks.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the casserole, you’ll want to take it off the stove when it’s just shy of al dente to avoid mushy noodles.
Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to swap broccoli for other vegetables like green beans, peas, or carrots based on your preference and what you have on hand.
Use Leftover Chicken: If you have rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken, feel free to use that to save time.
Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How to Store Chicken Noodle Casserole
Storing leftover Chicken Noodle Casserole is easy and will maintain its flavor and texture if done correctly. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before storing it. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container or cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within a few days. Chicken Noodle Casserole can typically be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to keep it for longer, consider freezing it before baking.
To freeze, ensure that it’s wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
Variations of Chicken Noodle Casserole
While the classic Chicken Noodle Casserole is terrific, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few delicious variations to consider:
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Casserole: Load up on cheese by increasing the amount of sharp white cheddar, making the casserole extra cheesy.
Southwestern Style: Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies to the mix for a southwestern twist. Top it with crumbled tortilla chips instead of crispy fried onions for added crunch.
Healthy Spin: Substitute cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce. You can use low-fat or fat-free options for sour cream and milk to make it lighter.
Pasta Variations: While rotini is great, you can experiment with different types of pasta such as rotelle, penne, or even whole wheat options for a healthier touch.
Herbed Delight: Add fresh herbs like thyme and parsley for an aromatic twist that enhances the flavor profile of the casserole.
FAQ
What makes Chicken Noodle Casserole a go-to recipe for families?
Chicken Noodle Casserole is beloved by families for its convenience and the ability to create a hearty, filling meal with minimal effort. It’s an all-in-one dish that can be prepped in no time, making it perfect for busy nights.
Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen diced chicken, but be sure to cook it thoroughly in the skillet before mixing it with other ingredients.
How can I make Chicken Noodle Casserole gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free rotini and ensure that your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free as well.
How can I keep Chicken Noodle Casserole from drying out when reheating?
To keep your casserole moist during reheating, cover it with foil and add a splash of milk or broth before reheating in the oven to restore moisture.
What sides pair well with Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Aside from garlic bread with cheese, consider serving a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to complement the casserole’s richness.
Chicken Noodle Casserole
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- 9×13 inch Casserole Dish
- Mixing Bowls
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups diced uncooked chicken
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups dry rotini pasta
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup regular cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup French’s crispy fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Season chicken with Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until starting to brown.
- Add broccoli florets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until chicken is cooked through and broccoli is tender.
- Meanwhile, cook rotini in salted boiling water 1 minute less than al dente according to package instructions. Drain well.
- In a separate pot, mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and sharp white cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Combine pasta, chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce in the skillet. Stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer mixture to a lightly greased 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded regular cheddar cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle crispy fried onions on top, and bake uncovered for 8 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
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