The Ultimate Chicken and Noodle Casserole

Ingredients

– 2 cups of cooked egg noodles

– 2 cups of chicken, cooked and shredded

– 2 cups of corn (you can use fresh, frozen, or canned)

– 1 cup of milk

– 2 10oz cans of cream of chicken soup

– 1 onion, diced

– 1 tbsp of minced garlic

– ½ cup of shredded cheese (I use cheddar, but any cheese will do)

– ¾ cup of french-fried onions

– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

While the oven is preheating, grease a 9 by 13 baking dish with cooking spray.

In a medium bowl, mix the cooked egg noodles, shredded chicken, corn, milk, cream of chicken soup, onion, garlic, cheese (add extra if you like it extra cheesy!) bacon, and add salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the chicken mixture into your greased pan.

When the oven is preheated, place the pan into the oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes.

Remove from the oven and serve the ultimate chicken warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

SERVING SIZE: 1

Amount Per Serving:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?

Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other types of pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli.

Just make sure the pasta is cooked before adding it to the casserole.

Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?

If you prefer a different flavor, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce.

For a lighter version, you could use a lower-fat cream soup or a mix of sour cream and chicken broth.

Can I use cooked chicken breasts or thighs?

Absolutely. Cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs work well.

You can also use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience.

How can I make this casserole healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using reduced-fat cream of chicken soup, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables.

You can also use whole-grain pasta or reduce the amount of cheese and bacon.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance.

Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

If it’s cold from the fridge, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have french-fried onions?

If you don’t have french-fried onions, you can use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a topping for crunch.

Alternatively, you can omit the topping and just bake the casserole as is.

How do I ensure the casserole is cooked evenly?

Make sure to spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish.

Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

Stirring halfway through can help ensure even cooking.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole.

Assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed.

How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.

You can also microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or a light soup.

You can also serve it with crusty bread or dinner rolls for a complete meal.