Chicken-Ham Noodle Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender noodles, savory chicken and ham, melted sharp cheese, and crunchy bread crumbs, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles in boiling, salted water until barely tender. Drain, rinse, and toss with cheese and minced onion.
- In a 3-quart casserole, place one-third of the noodle mixture.
- Make two layers of diced ham and cooked chicken with one-third of the noodles between each layer.
- End with a layer of noodles on top.
- Toss bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons of butter and garlic salt to taste, then sprinkle over the top.
- Pour about 2 cups of chicken broth over all ingredients.
- Bake, covered, in a 350°F oven for about an hour or until bubbling and the broth is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup to the noodle mixture. You can substitute the sharp cheese with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a milder flavor. If you're short on time, precooked rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. Adjust the garlic salt according to your taste preference, or use fresh garlic for a bolder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken-Ham Noodle Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, you might serve it with garlic bread or crusty rolls. It's perfect for potlucks and can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken-Ham Noodle Casserole contains roughly 938 calories, with 13g protein, 188g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 919mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While medium noodles are traditional, you can substitute with egg noodles, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed, based on the type of pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the layers, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the foil and pour the chicken broth over it before baking as instructed. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).