Quick & Healthy One Dish Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
This comforting meal combines tender chicken, wholesome noodles, and a creamy, vegetable-rich sauce, all baked together in a single dish. It's a streamlined version of a classic comfort food, designed for both ease of preparation and nutritional value. The dish offers a satisfying blend of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins, making it a well-rounded option for a family dinner.
Equipment
- A large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven (at least 6-quart capacity)
- A 9x13 inch baking dish (if not using an oven-safe pot)
- A cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables and chicken
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- A mixing bowl for preparing the sauce slurry
- A whisk for combining sauce ingredients smoothly
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring ingredients
- Oven Mitts: For safely handling hot dishes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 8 oz whole wheat egg noodles
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup milk low-fat or non-dairy
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour or gluten-free alternative
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Saut the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Saut for 5-7 minutes, or until softened, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Step 2: Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Step 3: Add Noodles and Broth: Stir in the whole wheat egg noodles and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Step 4: Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and flour until smooth. This will create a slurry to thicken the sauce.
- Step 5: Thicken the Casserole: Pour the milk-flour mixture into the pot with the chicken and noodles. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Step 6: Add Peas and Season: Stir in the frozen peas, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 7: Bake (Optional): If the pot is oven-safe, transfer it directly to the preheated oven. Otherwise, pour the casserole into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake uncovered at 375F (190C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and slightly browned on top. This step enhances flavor, but is not essential.
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven (if baked) and let stand for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
- Optional Tips: For a creamier casserole, add 1/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt during the last few minutes of cooking (do not boil). For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free noodles and a cornstarch slurry instead of flour. Different vegetables (broccoli, green beans, bell peppers) can be added or substituted according to preference.
Notes
Variations
The basic recipe for a healthy one-dish chicken noodle casserole lends itself well to numerous adaptations and enhancements. Ingredient swaps, regional styles, and dietary adjustments can be incorporated to cater to individual preferences and needs. Consider the following:
- Ingredient Swaps: Experiment with different protein sources, such as turkey or chickpeas, in lieu of chicken. Vegetables can be easily substituted based on seasonal availability or personal taste; consider adding mushrooms, spinach, or green beans. Cheese can be added during the last few minutes of baking for added flavor and texture.
- Regional Styles: Incorporate Southwestern flavors by adding diced tomatoes, green chilies, and cumin. Or, opt for a Mediterranean twist with the inclusion of artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and Kalamata olives.
- Dietary Adjustments: To create a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and increase the amount of vegetables, adding a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for added protein. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk, and ensure any added cheese is dairy-free. A gluten-free version can be achieved by using gluten-free noodles and a cornstarch slurry instead of flour as a thickener.
Serving Suggestions
A healthy one-dish chicken noodle casserole offers versatility in when and how it is served. It makes an excellent weeknight dinner, offering a complete and satisfying meal in a single dish. It is also well-suited for potlucks, gatherings, and meal prepping. When serving, consider the following:
- Serve warm, directly from the oven or pot.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutritional balance.
- Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for added visual appeal and flavor.
- Offer crusty bread or rolls for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential for preserving the freshness and quality of the chicken noodle casserole. Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Follow these guidelines for optimal storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen. Divide the casserole into individual portions or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350F (175C) until heated through, or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or milk to prevent drying out during reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
Yes, the casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the noodles just before baking to prevent them from becoming soggy. - Question 2: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful alternative to cooking chicken breasts. Simply add it to the casserole during the thickening stage. - Question 3: How can I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
Avoid overcooking the noodles during the initial simmering stage. Cook them until they are just al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven (if baking) or during the thickening stage. - Question 4: Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
This recipe can be easily adapted to accommodate various dietary restrictions, like dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegetarian diets by making appropriate ingredient substitutions as outlined in the “Variations” section.