Tuna Or Chicken Noodle Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender chicken or tuna with creamy soup, peas, and noodles, perfect for quick family dinners or satisfying weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix the chicken or tuna, milk, peas, cooked noodles, cream of chicken or mushroom soup, and salt together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. If you want a healthier option, substitute whole wheat noodles and low-fat soup. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the flavor. You can also use leftover chicken from dishes like Sticky Peaches Chicken for a great twist on the classic.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like Glazed Carrots With Herbs for a balanced meal. For a heartier side, consider serving it with crusty bread or a side of garlic bread. It's perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comfort in every bite.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in 1-minute increments until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Or Chicken Noodle Casserole contains roughly 249 calories, with 5g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2173mg per serving (94% 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 fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked, shredded chicken instead of canned. Just ensure it's fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will provide a fresher taste and texture to your casserole.
Can I freeze this casserole before baking?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and then freeze it. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It makes for a convenient meal prep option.
What can I add to make it spicier?
You can add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture for some heat. Additionally, mixing in some hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile and give it a kick. Adjust to your taste preference!
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).