Chicken Noodle Casserole:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles
- 1 cup peas and carrots (frozen or cooked)
- 2 cans (10.5 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or any preferred cheese)
- 1 teaspoon 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). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked egg noodles, and peas and carrots.
- In another bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, milk, mayonnaise, shredded cheese, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken, noodles, and vegetables in the large mixing bowl. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle additional shredded cheese over the top of the casserole for extra cheesiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Chicken Noodle Casserole!
Note: If using tuna instead of chicken, simply substitute shredded tuna for the shredded chicken in the recipe. The rest of the instructions remain the same.
Here are some tips to make your Chicken Noodle Casserole even more delicious:
- Cook the Noodles Al Dente: Make sure to cook the egg noodles al dente, so they hold their shape and texture well in the casserole. Overcooked noodles can become mushy.
- Season the Chicken: Season the shredded chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices before mixing it with the noodles. This adds flavor to every bite of the casserole.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the casserole mixture for an extra burst of freshness and flavor.
- Incorporate Vegetables Creatively: While peas and carrots are classic additions, feel free to customize with other vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or broccoli florets for added color and nutrients.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar cheese is commonly used, you can experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for varying flavors and textures.
- Customize the Seasonings: Adjust the Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. You can also add a pinch of paprika or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Make it Creamier: For an even creamier casserole, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture before baking.
- Crunchy Topping: For added texture, top the casserole with a layer of crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter before baking. This creates a delicious crunchy topping.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice and serve.
- Serve with a Side Salad: Balance out the richness of the casserole by serving it with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette. The crispness and acidity of the salad will complement the creamy casserole perfectly.
By following these tips, you can elevate your Chicken Noodle Casserole into a memorable and comforting dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking
