Delightful Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for tasty chicken noodle casserole recipes, you’ve come to the right place! This creamy, flavorful chicken noodle casserole is perfect for family dinners and tastes even better as leftovers. With a cooking time of just over an hour, this dish combines ease with a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy.
About Chicken Noodle Casserole
Chicken noodle casseroles are a comforting staple for many households. This old-fashioned version is rich, creamy, and topped with crushed crackers for added texture. Chicken breasts are the star of this dish, providing both flavor and protein. When combined with the creamy blend of soups, this pasta-based casserole becomes a meal that warms the soul.
Yield and Ingredients
Yield: 1 2-quart casserole (Serves 6)
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- 6 ounces egg noodles
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup crumbled buttery round crackers
Instructions for Perfect Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent cooking temperature for your casserole.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chicken breasts and cook until no longer pink, about 15 minutes. Remove from the pot and shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare Noodles: In the same pot, bring water to a boil and cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente; drain.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the soups, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken and noodles with the soup mixture until everything is well coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken noodle mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle the crumbled crackers evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cracker topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Healthier Cooking Tips
While this chicken noodle casserole is delicious as is, you may wish to try lighter options for a healthier version:
- Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy taste with less fat.
- Bake the Chicken: Instead of boiling, bake the chicken with a drop of olive oil for added flavor.
- Whole Wheat Noodles: Swap egg noodles with whole wheat pasta for more fiber.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Noodle Casserole
- Quick & Easy: It requires just 30 minutes of prep time.
- Nutritious: Protein-rich with balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats.
- Great for Leftovers: Simply add a sprinkle of cheese for a different texture.
Try this chicken noodle casserole today and let it become your family’s new favorite! Remember to play around with the numerous variations of chicken noodle casserole recipes to find your perfect match.