Easy One-Dish Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe: Bake It!
This comforting and convenient bake features tender chicken, egg noodles, and a creamy sauce, all brought together in a single baking dish. The casserole is a harmonious blend of savory flavors, offering a satisfying and complete meal. It represents the pinnacle of effortless home cooking.
Equipment
- A 9x13 inch baking dish
- A large mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A sharp knife and cutting board (for preparing ingredients, if needed)
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 12 ounce package egg noodles
- 1 10.75 ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375F (190C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients: In a large baking dish, gently combine the cooked and shredded chicken, uncooked egg noodles, condensed cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, frozen peas, diced onion, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and the noodles are submerged in the liquid.
- Step 3: Bake the Casserole: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the noodles to cook through and the flavors to meld together.
- Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional): Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, if desired. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 5: Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly and the flavors to fully develop.
- Tips and Substitutions: For a richer flavor, use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom. If you don't have frozen peas, other vegetables like diced carrots or green beans can be substituted. For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before the final bake.
Notes
Variations
The “One dish chicken noodle casserole recipe” lends itself well to numerous adaptations, catering to diverse tastes, dietary needs, and regional preferences.
- Ingredient Swaps:
- Protein: Turkey or ham can be substituted for chicken. Canned tuna offers a quick alternative.
- Noodles: Gluten-free pasta or vegetable noodles can replace traditional egg noodles.
- Soup: Cream of celery or cream of broccoli soup presents flavorful alternatives to cream of mushroom.
- Vegetables: Diced carrots, green beans, corn, or spinach can be added or substituted for peas.
- Regional Twists:
- Southwestern: Incorporate black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a Southwestern flair.
- Italian: Add Italian seasoning, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese for an Italian-inspired variation.
- Greek: Integrate spinach, feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean twist.
- Dietary Adjustments:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the cream soup is gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Employ dairy-free cream soup and plant-based milk alternatives.
- Lower Sodium: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and reduce or eliminate added salt.
Serving Suggestions
The “One dish chicken noodle casserole recipe” is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions.
- Weeknight Dinner: Its simplicity makes it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Potlucks and Gatherings: The casserole travels well and is easily portioned, making it a great choice for potlucks and casual gatherings.
- Side Dishes: Serve alongside a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Garnishes: Fresh herbs such as parsley or chives can be sprinkled on top for added flavor and visual appeal.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the freshness and flavor of the “One dish chicken noodle casserole recipe”.
- Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk during reheating to restore moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for this recipe. - Question 2: Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
Yes, the casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. - Question 3: Can I add breadcrumbs to the topping?
Absolutely. A mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter can be sprinkled over the top for a crispy topping. - Question 4: How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
Avoid overcooking the casserole. Bake it covered for the recommended time, and remove the foil for the final few minutes to prevent mushy noodles. - Question 5: Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
While possible, it may require adjustments to the liquid and cooking time. The noodles may become softer in a slow cooker.