Are you craving a mouthwatering dish that combines the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and comforting flavors? Look no further than this irresistible Creamy Chicken and Noodle Casserole! Imagine a golden, bubbling masterpiece that transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're looking for a quick family dinner or a potluck showstopper, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked egg noodles and shredded chicken. Ensure the noodles are well-drained and at room temperature to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Add cream of chicken soup and sour cream to the noodle and chicken mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a uniform layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, covering the entire surface for a golden, melted cheese topping.
- Scatter breadcrumbs over the cheese layer to create a crispy, golden-brown crust when baked.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired for added color and flavor.
Tips
- Ensure your noodles and chicken are thoroughly drained to prevent a watery casserole. Pat them dry if necessary.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some sautéed onions or garlic to the mixture before baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged for a more melty and flavorful topping.
- If you want a crispier breadcrumb topping, consider mixing the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
- Let the casserole rest for at least 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat sour cream and cream of chicken soup.
- Experiment with different types of cheese like sharp cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavor profiles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 95mg
