Crunchy Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

2 cups Chicken, cooked and shredded

8 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package directions

1 can cream of chicken soup

1 cup Sour Cream

1 tsp Garlic Powder

1 cup Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded, divided

1 ½ cups French Fried Onions

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350*

Spray a 10 inch baking dish with nonstick spray

Place the cooked noodles into a bowl

Add the soup, the sour cream, the shredded chicken, garlic powder and half the cheese to the bowl

Mix well until totally combined

Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and put into the oven

Bake for 25 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and beginning to become golden brown

Remove from the oven, top with the French Fried Onions and the remaining cheese

Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes

Cool for 10 minutes before serving

Enjoy!

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 12 SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use canned green chilies instead of roasting Anaheim chilies?

Yes, if you’re short on time or can’t find fresh Anaheim chilies, you can substitute them with canned green chilies.

Just make sure to drain and chop them before adding to the dish.

The roasting step adds a smoky flavor, but canned chilies will still work well.

Is it necessary to use both Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack cheeses, or can I use just one type?

While the combination of Monterey Jack and Pepper Jack cheeses adds flavor and a bit of heat, you can use either one or a different cheese blend if you prefer.

Adjust the cheese selection to your taste preferences.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be vegetarian or vegan.

For a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh instead of chicken.

For a vegan version, use dairy-free substitutes for butter, half-and-half, and cheese, such as vegan butter, almond milk, and dairy-free cheese.

Can I freeze Green Chile Chicken Spaghetti for later use?

While this dish can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it before baking.

Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly and freeze.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake according to the recipe instructions.

Freezing after baking may affect the texture.

What are some possible garnishes besides cilantro or pico de gallo?

You can garnish your Green Chile Chicken Spaghetti with a variety of toppings, such as sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

These toppings can add freshness and creaminess to the dish.

Can I use different proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute other proteins such as turkey, shredded beef, or even tofu for the chicken.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the protein is heated through.

What can I use as a substitute for French Fried Onions?

If you don’t have French Fried Onions, you can use crushed potato chips, crushed cornflakes, or even breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter for a crispy topping.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance, cover it tightly, and freeze it before baking.

When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions in the recipe.

Keep in mind that freezing may slightly alter the texture, but it should still taste delicious.

Are there any vegetable additions I can include in this casserole?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers to the casserole for added flavor and nutrition.

Just mix them in with the other ingredients before baking.

Is it necessary to use freshly shredded cheese, or can I use pre-shredded cheese from a bag?

While freshly shredded cheese tends to melt more smoothly, you can use pre-shredded cheese if that’s what you have on hand.

However, pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can affect its meltability.

If you prefer a creamier texture, freshly shredded cheese is a good choice.