Chicken Noodle Casserole
Creamy and comforting, this chicken noodle casserole features tender chicken, egg noodles, and a rich sauce topped with crunchy bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it offers hearty flavors and easy preparation, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan, melt margarine and blend in flour.
- Stir in milk, salt, and chicken broth.
- Cook until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Grease a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Mix cooked chicken and noodles with the sauce.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle with bread crumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until top is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or cream cheese to the sauce. If you don't have margarine, butter works just as well. You can also swap out egg noodles with whole wheat noodles or gluten-free options for a healthier alternative. For added flavor, try mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic with the chicken and noodles.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Noodle Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider serving it alongside Sheila's Potato Casserole for a hearty dinner. A light dessert, like fruit salad, can help balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Noodle Casserole contains roughly 873 calories, with 21g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (57% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2084mg per serving (91% 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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds great flavor. Just ensure it's shredded or cubed into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the noodles and sauce.
Can I freeze the Chicken Noodle Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. It can also be frozen after baking, but the texture may change slightly.
What can I substitute for the chicken broth?
If you don't have chicken broth, vegetable broth or even water can be used as a substitute. However, using broth will enhance the flavor of the casserole. Adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can also add depth to the flavor.
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).